Exhaust Gaskets

[Mr Toga]

Hello everyone. I would like to run an idea by you quickly. I have a hard time spending $42 for the two exhaust gaskets connecting the mufflers and the header (part 5 in the fiche link below). What if I made gaskets using fine steel wool instead? Would that be an adequate replacement? Thanks in advance!

http://www.partshark.com/fiche_image...4&name=MUFFLER

[BassCliff]

Hi,

If you're not going to get the real thing, I think you'd have better luck with some kind of exhaust tape. Wrap enough around the joint to let the clamp get a good bite and seal properly.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff

[bwringer]

Lordy, we do get some tightwads around here...

You know, there are starving CB and KZ riders out there who would get down on their knees for the chance to spend only $42 to make their bikes run right.

No, steel wool won't do anything. Once you order the correct exhaust seals, you can get by until they arrive by using a "muffler bandage" from an auto parts store along with a couple of hose clamps. This involves a total expenditure of around $10, but maybe you can harvest a few rusty hose clamps from the neighbor's car or something.

[Mr Toga]

Haha thanks guys. I will eventually replace with the correct item I was just curious. Thanks for the info!

[Nessism]

Those stupid exhaust gaskets are nose bleed expensive, so to me at least, finding an alternate is alluring. Unfortunately, I don't know of any. It would be cool to find another model bike with usable, and cheaper, substitute parts. There are some aftermarket Z1 parts so that may be worth a look. If you find anything please post back here with your source.

Good luck

[hampshirehog]

Some old boilers used to use a semi-flexible asbestos thick sheeting on the inside of the panels. I've got about half a sheet left and that does the job a treat. Also useful for exhaust gaskets if you can be bothered.

[Skateguy50]

I cant view his link, but is it the same as part 2 in this one?

http://www.bikebandit.com/1981-suzuki-motorcycle-gs550tx-muffler/o/m6090sch260395

listed as $3.26 each... just buy them and be done with it.

[Nessism]

I cant view his link, but is it the same as part 2 in this one?

http://www.bikebandit.com/1981-suzuki-motorcycle-gs550tx-muffler/o/m6090sch260395

listed as $3.26 each... just buy them and be done with it.

Wrong part.

"two exhaust gaskets connecting the mufflers and the header"

[bwringer]

I have wondered about something like this (I have no idea if the diameter is right, so don't order any on my say-so without measuring.) It's braided silica sleeving that will withstand up to 2300 degrees F. A foot is just under $8:

http://www.mcmaster.com/#braided-tubing/=8ck58o

There's also fiberglass sleeving good up to 1000 degrees. That oughta do it. Under two bucks a foot:

http://www.mcmaster.com/#braided-tubing/=8ck6sw

The main problem is that neither of these materials is rigid enough to install easily.