Problem! Engine Knocking

Last night I wrapped my headers with exhaust wrap and now once I have re-applied my exhaust, my engine seems to be knocking where the headers meet the engine. This is on a 1980 KZ1000 LTD.

I do not know if the carbs need adjusted now that the wrap is on or what. It is pretty violent.

Has this ever happened to anyone? Any suggestions are helpful.

Did you replace the exhaust gaskets? Is tape in the connection? Sounds like an exhaust leak to me.

Yes I did replace the exhaust gaskets, but they dont seem to be in the best shape. I just bought this bike and am trying to get it running right.

The wrap is not in the connection. I believe there could be a slight exhaust leak. How is this fixed?

Thanks

KZBobber wrote:

Yes I did replace the exhaust gaskets, but they dont seem to be in the best shape.
Thanks

Exhaust gaskets are hollow copper donuts that crush when you tighten the pipes down. They must be replaced each time you take the pipes loose or they will leak like a real mutha. I think Z1 sells the gasket rings.

Thank you bounty. Would this cause the engine to knock or sound like air is popping out of it?

KZBobber wrote:

Thank you bounty. Would this cause the engine to knock or sound like air is popping out of it?

Yes. When mine leak at the head pipe, they make a loud "crack-crack-crack" kind of sound that gets louder the more I open the throttle.

That must be it. Thanks again. Do you know where you get these gaskets? or do you have to order them online?

KZBobber wrote:

That must be it. Thanks again. Do you know where you get these gaskets? or do you have to order them online?

I'm sure you can get them at a Kawi dealer, but they might gouge you. You could check around at the local bike shops if you have any nearby.

If you decide to order them from Z1:

www.z1enterprises.com/detail.aspx?ID=196


They usually ship things very fast. With small items they have in stock, they usually get them to me in maybe four days. When I buy these, I get a bunch of them so I have some around in case I need them.

KZBobber wrote:

Last night I wrapped my headers with exhaust wrap and now once I have re-applied my exhaust, my engine seems to be knocking where the headers meet the engine. This is on a 1980 KZ1000 LTD.

I do not know if the carbs need adjusted now that the wrap is on or what. It is pretty violent.

Has this ever happened to anyone? Any suggestions are helpful.

It's up to no good! If it keeps knocking call the cops. You can get a restraining order.

Try heating those gaskets cherry red with a propane torch, then letting them cool naturally to room temp. It may bring them back to life.