exhaust head pipe studs - is penetrating oil enough?

[Michael R1150GS Adventure]

what experiences have you all had with getting the exhaust header stud nuts off?

I appreciate the studs may come out/break/etc the usual - just wondering what products you have used in the job?

 

[Popell]

Spark errosion to remove the remnants of the stud after the inevitable - mind you that was on a Honda!

 

[Packer]

I've taken my headers off regularly to clean them, well every couple of years, so don't have a problem but if yours are undisturbed since new heat is your friend. A good blow lamp or Oxy/Acetylene and single hex impact socket, not standard double hex plastic shite.

 

[Wegby]

Too Hot to Handle!

Yes - second the comment about heat. Get a blowtorch and that will help no end.

Also, if you smoke, you'll look really hard if you light your fags with it!

 

[Stewart H]

I tried heat, plus gas and a tiny quarter drive ratchet and still managed to snap one I will get some new nuts and cut the old ones off with a dremel, then remove them regularly and keep plenty of anti seize on there.

 

[Styve100]

I dont think penetrating oil is enough.
I have striped my bike and one stud sheared, tried a easi out, that sheared, so now my left head is off and down the engineering works, with me having fingers crossed

Its one of those jobs I started, I probably wish I hadnt.