2008 GSA Header query

[stickboy339]

Hi Chaps, I'm just in the process of buying my first BMW, a 2008 Single Cam GSA from a fellow member but the exhaust headers are quite poor. I've found a mint set of headers on eBay off a Twin Cam so wanted to know if they'll fit the single cam bike / end can? All information gratefully received. Thanks

 

[comberjohn]

The TC headers will fit your SC but your silencer won't fit the TC headers. If you see what I mean.
The TC has an exhaust valve between the silencer and headers plus the pipe diameters are different.
You need either a complete TC system or SC headers.
Another way is to look for a set of decat aftermarket headers. They'll give you a modest increase in performance as well as a slightly louder exhaust. Again, it'll have to be a set for an SC or else a complete TC system.
If you prefer a shiny exhaust, I do, they generally aren't chromed and do tend to go dull.
You thought it would be an easy question, didn't you.

 

[Bendy toy]

There is a Remus header on the for sale section. They are dirty but all headers will be the same after a few miles. They will work with the OEM silencer can or any non TC aftermarket can.

 

[comberjohn]

Careful now. If it's the headers that Pympster are selling then they're for a TC.

 

[Bendy toy]

I'd missed that but they will work with a spacer/extension tube.

The exhaust ports and system hangers are the same for all hexheads. TC has a gap for the flappy valve so the stub outlet is a bit short.

 

[comberjohn]

Who does an extension tube/spacer, Bendy?
Didn't realise you could get them. The TC header pipe diameter is bigger so it would have to reduce the size, too.

 

[Bendy toy]

Wunderlich sell an extension tube to fit in place of the exhaust flap valve.

http://www.nippynormans.com/r1200gs...wer-tube-valve-eliminator-r1200gsadv-and-more

You will find stainless tubes on eBay for a fraction of that cost.

 

[comberjohn]

Yes, I've got one but it won't allow you to connect an SC silencer to TC headers or vice versa. The main pipe diameters are different between the two models and the pipe sold by Nippy Normans and others, is the same diameter both ends, i.e. same diameter as the exhaust on the TC. It's to eliminate the flappy exhaust valve, not allow a different silencer to be fitted.
Either use SC headers or look for a complete TC system.
Told you it wasn't simple.

 

[Bendy toy]

Or sleeve the pipe down or ask an exhaust builder to swage a pipe for you.

 

[Beemerman59]

Easiest to just get a set of headers made for the '08 rather than faff around with interlinking bits & bobs. I've got a set of Remus stainless headers (small ding underneath one of the headers you can only see if your face is on the ground) I'm happy to sell if you're interested. They came off my '08 GSA.

 

[comberjohn]

You're not going to easily sleeve it down and get a decent seal. The difference in diameter is 9mm because the ends are flaired to allow for the valve. Plus, with a custom made link pipe, it may not be a straight run so the maker would need the bike there to make it.

As someone who has actually used both types of system on their TC, it's not worth the hassle. Something will turn up on the forum or eBay. At least you can still keep it on the road.

See the TC headers you are talking about. Very nice condition. I see your dilemma.

 

[Bendy toy]

Agreed there is no point in faffing about if you can get an early model system. They will fit all models BTW, but you need early model parts from end to end.

The TC flap valve section is straight so no need for an angle link pipe but as said the hassle is avoidable.

I have an Akraprovic stacked twin silencer system. Apart from the second Y section, it looks just like any other system but the bends are not the same. The headers will work only with the stacked cans at the back end. Most are interchangeable these are not. So if you come across one of the these "shotgun" systems be sure to buy the whole lot.

 

[stickboy339]

Might be an option, how much please ? I guess incl p&p to Northampton, cheers.

 

[stickboy339]

Thank's for the replies chaps, that clears a few things up. Beemerman59: Might be an option, how much please ? I guess incl p&p to Northampton, Thanks again chaps