Akropovic header problem / experience

[sagalout]

Hi,

I decided the treat the TC to a full Akro system, so set aside a few hours to fit it this afternoon.

All seemed to be going ok (apart from the old exhaust / valve clamp bolts shearing off) but the new system doesn't see to fit all that well. I've tried fitting and re-fitting 3 times, including leaving everything 'loose' and tightening with it all in place, but basically the header pipes don't line up all that well with the 2 into 1 section.

I have got it to fit eventually with quite a lot of rubber mallet usage, but then noticed the front header had come away from the cylinder slightly. A light tap knocked it back in, and after starting up there don't appear to be any visible leaks (sounds great too!), but just wondered what others experience of fitting was? I'd expected for the price that everything would fit perfectly, and I don't like the idea of the exhaust being under unnecessary tension.

Headers are new but end can was from eBay - box suggests its definitely the right model :/

I've got a Power Commander to fit next, and a HID kit so hoping they go a little smoother!

 

[Old Wobbly]

My guess would be it's the pre twin cam headers on a twin cam. You mention the box suggests it's the right unit, but perhaps you could find some dimensions somewhere to confirm?

If it's under too much tension or pressure it will probably crack with the heat cycling and vibration.

I have the standard headers on my '13 TC with link pipe and Akra Ti end can and did have them off to look at removing the cat', but was surprised how light they were so put them back on. The fit to re-attach was perfect, no stressing at all and like you I'd expect the Akra' headers to fit as good as or better than the std BMW ones.

 

[Roadrash Rider]

Would have expected them to be spot on, as Old Wobbly said sure its not a pre twin cam header, i fitted a Keihan header with Akra can perfect fit, only issue was positioning the two clamp either side of exhaust flap, would expect the Akra header to be a better fit than you described above fella?


Sent using Tapatalk

 

[sagalout]

Just double checked all the packaging (the headers were new and came in a sealed Akropovic box with each item in sealed bubblewrap) Every bit of packaging has the code E-B12R3 which googling suggests is definitely for the TC.

it seems to be either the header link pipe, or more likely the curve on one of the headers to that pipe.

End pipe fits up perfectly.

Annoying as it's all assembled on the bike now and I really want to just get out for a ride. Will probably just take it for a short 10 mile ride, come back and see if everything is still in place!

 

[sagalout]

To add a bit more detail, once the headers were installed, when I came to offer up the collector, the pipes were about 2-3mm out from being lined up. I could push them into place, but then when trying to slide them up (with the collector hooked onto the frame bracket) that's when it needed a fair use of the mallet.

 

[Bendy toy]

My Akra headers were awkward to line up and still sit slightly further from the engine at one side than at the other. Bike is an 08 GSA. Make sure the old exhaust port gaskets are removed and new ones are fitted. Other than that there is no a lot you can do. Also use the correct anti seize paste on the header joints or you may find they wont ever separate again.

 

[sagalout]

Cheers Bendy - that makes me feel better! Took it for a test ride today and all fine - surprised that the fueling was actually very good even before fitting the power commander.