Exhaust question

Hey there!

Just got an 81 kz750 and I need to find new headers for it I think. Currently the pipes look to be cut just under the engine and they spit blue flame when throttled. I'm guessing this is bad...

Wondering if the 4-1 pipes from a 77 kz650 would work as I found a guy parting out and selling them for $40

Input? Advice? I thought about going straight pipe but I hear that blue flame is band and could mess up a ring? And not enough back pressure?

I'm a noob

The 650 pipes should work. Not sure if the muffler hangers in the back will line up perfectly but that's something you should be able to work through.

Straight pipes are irresponsible toward anyone within earshot of your bike, and to motorcyclists everywhere because it creates ill will with the public. Please get some mufflers.

Forget using straight or cut-off pipes. Not only will you annoy folks, the bike will not run nearly as well as it would with a normal exhaust system. Ed

I scooped up a set of 4 into 1 today. Off a 650. The pipes line up great but they don't seem to seal quite right. Any suggestions?

4 New copper exhaust gaskets, they go between the pipe flanges and the surface on the head at the exhaust ports....... I don't worry about other people, Loud pipes save lives :ohmy:

Could there be old gaskets stuck in the ports? Do you have the split collars that were made for those pipes?

I think it's the split collars. They don't seem to be big enough to push the pipe forward and hold it in place. Where can I find suitable ones/ can I make some?

If they are very close to the right length, you can double up on the crush washers.
The best bet would be to get new one of the proper dime nsions from the pipe manufacturer.
I don't. Know if you can make them or not. That depends on your knowledge, experience and available equipment. Generally, they are steel stampings, but I suppose you could turn some full circle ones on a lathe and then cut them in half.

I made a shim out of aluminum fence ties for my susie flanges. Heavy gauge wire will work..They were too deep.
Steve