I'm getting a bit question happy these days but here's another one.

If I want to remove the udder to paint it black and then put it back on, are there any special pitfalls I should be looking out for?  I did a search and couldn't come up with a specific answer.  I would think it would be a bit more complicated than taking/putting the mufflers off/on, which just requires a few clamps to be loosened and tightened.  Do I need to get any kind of exhaust sealant?  Lube?  A detailed response as to how I would do this would be GREATLY appreciated.

It’s easy to take off, but if I were removing that heavy POS it damn sure would not be going back on.  Friggin thing ways weighs something like 15lbs - reason #1 to get rid of it!  But that's not what you asked:

Its' been a while, but if I recall the cat and horizontal collector are one piece - very easy to take off.  Just drop the two nuts at the manifold.  The vertical collector is tricky, but not rocket science.  I believe there is a short pipe section from the udder that clamps to another short section that connects to the manifold.  I’m not sure you need to drop the entire pipe from the manifold or just the clamp to cat connection.  But look it over, you'll figure out the best way to drop it.  I'd try to avoid dropping the section that connects to the vertical jug, but if you need to then do it.  The vertical pipe can be a little tricky, if its tight a little weight on the seat (have someone sit on it) can give you some more clearance. 

When you put it back together keep everything loose and get everything fitted.  Start tightening things up slowly and watch that everything pulls together and aligns properly.  Work your way around as you tighten each piece, I can't say there is a specific order, just tighten each piece up a little at a time.  Pay attention to the fit at the manifold, do not let things cocked, or anything - not a big issue just watch it.  Use a torque wrench and don't over tighten the pipe at the manifold, if you make the beast with two backs up the studs you're going to regret it. 

It should fit fine and you shouldn't need sealant.   But after you get it back together check for leaks.  Any auto parts store has high-temp sealants, just ask someone at your local store and they should be able to point you in the right direction.  Avoid it if you can...


Oh yeah, probably want some anti-sieze grease on the HW.  I used lithium grease, but not sure it's right for the application (high-heat).  Hopefully some one will step in...

I just did this a few months ago. Just drop the udder by undoing the two little hangers that hold it on. At first I started taking off the headers which was a pita but quickly realized I didn't have to do that. You will still have to loosen the header going to the horizontal cylinder as I remember. I didn't need to replace the sealing rings although some had told me I might have had to do that, anyway no leaks, no pops. I did strip the bolt that screws into the exhaust port though on that horizontal header. I suspect this is because a lot of road grime collects in this area and I threaded in some junk. Fixed that by using a simple tap and die/ thread cleaner set.

Painted mine with $5 high temp bbq paint. Went slow, used a lot of coats came out good.