What do you use to keep your chrome exhaust shiny?

[simbo]

These nuts are described as 12 point or bi-hex, they are useful where access is limited.



Hence why a suitable socket is required, a 6 point or hex socket won't work.

Yeah, a 13mm what I like to call cheap socket fits a treat.
[attachimg=1]

[David.]

As "field tested" on a GS.

[Old-Git]

Ok so my bike goes up on the ramp today, service this week (if the oil filter arrives..) and I'm gonna make sure I can get the headers off before ordering the black widow set. I'm gonna soak them in plus gas, use heat (blowtorch), find a really tight socket. I've had advice to try nail varnish remover, tightening the nut ever so slightly. Any other hints, tips, tricks? Ta.

[gogs01]

Last year I removed the silencer, then the header assembly to give my bike a deep clean. (It's a 2017 model bought and registered in 2016)
The nuts holding the headers to the cylinder head looked like those in the pictures posted by David of the GS headers. 
I assumed they were external Torx nuts and used an external Torx socket (I could check the exact size if it would help). 
The nuts came off and were replaced without any problem, other than the conflicting numbers for the make-up torque.
I'm no expert, but I don't think a 12 point socket is the tool to use.

[simbo]

Last year I removed the silencer, then the header assembly

I assumed they were external Torx nuts and used an external Torx socket (I could check the exact size if it would help). 

I'm no expert, but I don't think a 12 point socket is the tool to use.

Yes that would help if you think it's the correct information.

[David.]

My understanding is that Torx fixings are 6 point.

This is an example of a M8 exhaust manifold nut with both internal & external fitting.



Typical Dimensional Specifications of TORX Sockets or Nut drivers
For use with External TORX Head Type Bolts.

Socket E-Size  Inch  Metric
E-14              .503"  12.85mm

https://forums.bmwmoa.org/showthread.ph ... eader-nuts

[simbo]

My understanding is that Torx fixings are 6 point.

This is an example of a M8 exhaust manifold nut with both internal & external fitting.



Typical Dimensional Specifications of TORX Sockets or Nut drivers
For use with External TORX Head Type Bolts.

Socket E-Size  Inch  Metric
E-14              .503"  12.85mm

https://forums.bmwmoa.org/showthread.php?80525-Size-of-torque-socket-to-remove-2014-GSA-header-nuts

I've got a Torx set as my Triumph has quite a few of them fixings, the BMW manifold bolts are nothing like.
[attachimg=1]

[Old-Git]

Success! All 4 off, copious amounts of plus gas, a bit of heat, and off they come. Thanks to Simbo for the tip re an old 13mm socket.

[David.]

Excellent news, pleased you got there in the end.

[Old-Git]

Exhaust arrived, I'll take pics and do a weight comparison later in the week.

[David.]

Wow, that's good service from BW, look forward to hearing how you get on with your local bike dealer and any potential remap.

[Old-Git]

Fitted it yesterday.... it's about 3/4 of an inch too long. Will fit OK with std silencer but not with the Akra, which has an internal lip. Just debating which bit to modify, the downpipes or the collector.... or should I send it back.....

[David.]

I suppose the BW headers have to be manufactured to fit with an OEM silencer or one of their own.

I guess if you are likely to sell the bike in the future, the OEM headers & silencer could be refitted.

Chop it & fit the Akra.

[Old-Git]

Chop it & fit the Akra.

Yep that's what I did. BTW the new system is 3.7 kilos, old one (incl servo motor etc) is 4.3 kilos. So not the huge weight reduction I was hoping for.

[David.]

Look forward to hearing how you get on with your local bike dealer and any potential remap.