SS bolt kit for R1150GS

SS bolts are an issue with SS nuts - galling self welding. But it's fine with a ferrous nut or into aluminium. If the thread back is open to weather use Loctite to seal the threads. SS and aluminium don't get along very well.

What about using SS exhaust studs like these, would you recommend it?
 
Exhaust studs are exposed to loads of salt & road crap.
IF corrosion gets between threads, the aluminium corrodes, expands and seizes the thread. If the stainless stud ever shears off it will be a major struggle to drill out.
On balance I would get studs and nuts from BMW.
Ive used stainless successfully on car engines with iron heads but that's not got the electrolytic issues of aluminium.
 
SS exhaust studs will be fine if you use the correct anti seize compound (not copperslip). I use a product designed for SS fastenings into alloy yacht masts (a zinc chromate compound I think but don't quote me on that, I haven't got it to hand). The major issue with the standard carbon steel studs is that they suffer from 'waisting' on the portion of the stud which sits inside the exhaust header flange. This in turn leads to the stud shearing when / if they corrode in place as above. A stainless stud won't suffer this waisting. I also don't bother with the OEM chrome dome nuts - I use ordinary brass nuts.

This works for me - last time I removed the exhaust, the stainless studs I installed five years ago unwound out of the heads easily with no evidence of corrosion or seizing. But, your bike, your choice...
 
Probably swimming against the tide with this:) I know Stainless looks nice and it stops the heads corroding so much so in 5 years time your hex keys doesn't just spin round but.... it doesn't stop them shearing. Personally I go for coated high tensile bolts when I replace them - especially at the front like the belt cover and head cover bolts.
 
Are you considering offering stainless kits again? I've just bought a 2002 R1150GS which needs some TLC, and I would definitely be interested in buying a kit. I would appreciate it if you could let me know either way as I'm keen to get on with the project!
 
Are you considering offering stainless kits again? I've just bought a 2002 R1150GS which needs some TLC, and I would definitely be interested in buying a kit. I would appreciate it if you could let me know either way as I'm keen to get on with the project!

Make that two , I'm stripping mine soon ...
 


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