exhaust leak?

[paintmann111]

I just replaced my exhaust gaskets yesterday and went out for a ride today. When I started it up it makes this poping sound coming from the header. I assume its the exhaust leaking, but it sounds like its only from one maybe two cylinders. I took off the headers and checked the gaskets. They are seated fine, but it still makes the noise. The only thing I can think off is that I am not tightening them down enough. What is the correct method to screw in the bolts? Start with the inside then out or vice versa?

[brveagle]

try throwing a old gasket plus your new gasket in there and screwing it down... can't hurt anything

[psyguy]

What is the correct method to screw in the bolts?

i think, do each a little at the time and keep repeating until the correct torque (6.5-10 ft lb on my gs850)

make sure that the whole exhaust system is in the correct position and well supported (in the middle, under the engine) but leave other bolts loose while doing the headpipes

[paintmann111]

I have a Kerker exhaust and am using the stock GS exhaust gaskets. Do I need special ones instead?

[psyguy]

I have a Kerker exhaust and am using the stock GS exhaust gaskets. Do I need special ones instead?

don't know what the end of the header pipe looks like on kerker
take the gasket out and see how it sits against the header pipe end
make sure all contact surfaces are clean
if the gasket sits fine against both sides (the head and the pipe), and if the gasket is not deformed, and the torque is correct, sorry, i can't think of anything else causing a leak

[chef1366]

I have a Kerker and I install it in this order. I oval (bend) the exhaust gakets just slightly so they don't fall out of the head. Stick the header pipes in the head and attach the pipe portion to the frame just slightly so it doesn't fall. Put the bolts through the header clamps into the head just enough to thread. I alternate the tightening of the header bolts so they all go in the head evenly. You don't have to over tighten or you will snap a bolt.

[robertbarr]

Let me toss in a suggestion about anti-seize compound. Not that it solves your problem, but down the road...

[paintmann111]

Thanks guys. I think I got it fixed now. I will take it for a spin tomorrow.