Exhaust headers removal

[Tilemedallion]

1980 CB750F
Looking for advice on the best way to remove the header nuts without breaking anything. They are original and overall in clean condition. If anyone can comment on their success story dealing with removing these headers would be great! Thank you

 

[kirky]

i stopped trying mine because i knew it would end badly, mine had seen bad weather for years but if you use plenty of penetrating oil and maybe localised heat with trying to tighten them a little bit first you could be in luck. if they shift a bit when trying to tighten them you have a good chance of playing with them and getting them off. i know for a fact mine will snap the studs . good luck and use a 6 point socket not a 12.

 

[Tilemedallion]

i stopped trying mine because i knew it would end badly, mine had seen bad weather for years but if you use plenty of penetrating oil and maybe localised heat with trying to tighten them a little bit first you could be in luck. if they shift a bit when trying to tighten them you have a good chance of playing with them and getting them off. i know for a fact mine will snap the studs . good luck and use a 6 point socket not a 12.

Thank you for the info. As far as localized heat where would you direct the torch flame and for how long? Thx again

 

[kirky]

propane torch and apply to the nut and when your spit sizzles try and tighten the nuts , if they shift a tiny bit you have a good chance, don't get the nuts red hot. you might have to repeat this over and over and if they don't budge like mine didn't after 2 weeks on and off of trying with plenty of lube you are in trouble like i am , i have left mine alone now and wrapped the unsightly rusty exhausts. the only time i will attempt it again is if the head has to come off because with over 40 years of this type of experience i know mine will snap the studs.

 

[Tilemedallion]

I appreciate the input! thank you

 

[brettp]

You can also buy a nut splitter. I've used it once to cut a nut off that wouldn't come loose.

 

[Tilemedallion]

ok thx brettp