Bolts in Y piece

[scotty]

Just had the bike for a couple of months and am really enjoying it. Mine came with a Remus exhaust which looks fab but the allen key bolts that connect the silencers to the downpipes are getting a bit corroded and will need replacing soon. They are 5mm allen key size but are really awkward to get out. On each side the outer most bolt is easy enough with a standard allen key but how the hell do you remove the inner bolt which does'nt really have the room to fit an allen key as there is no room with the bend in the down pipes getting in the way. Anyone have any ideas what's the best way to get these bolts out. A hex bit on a socket also won't fit due to lack or room. I just thought I'd check to see if there's a better way as I don't want to force something and knacker the allen key head.

[theseadog]

Been there, done that ( skint knuckles and frustration that is ! )

Get an allen key and cut a short length off it, ( about 15-20mm is fine ) you can then get a socket or spanner over this AND allow yourself enough of an angle to get it in and out. These bolts don't need to be cranked up really tight so the small socket is plenty enough to use.


HTH

Toodle Pip

[scotty]

Cheers Paul. A socket looks really tight for space so the other method might be best. Once the piece is cut off the allen key do you just place a ring spanner over the end ?

[adamski49]

Ball ended allen keys are the way to go.

[Jason M]

Ball ended allen keys are the way to go.

Here Here - get yourself a set of ball headed allen key sockets - it's the only way. Best give them a good squirt of plus gas first and let it soak for a while - I've got the Remus and have had to drill out 2 of the little feckers in the past, and that is absolutely no fun at all

Remember to bathe the new bolts in copperslip when you replace them too.

Jason

[scotty]

I've never used ball ended allan keys but I'll go out and buy a set. I assume these can be used whilst held at a slight angle to the bolt one is trying to remove. I really want these bolts out and replaced this summer though as it would be hell on earth trying to get the exhaust off if they shear due to bad corrosion.

[oyster]

The useful ball end allen keys described have a rather limited use. They are ideal for running up a cap head allen bolt till it pinches, then a regular hex sided key, either cranked type or the allen key ended socket are required to nip it to the correct torque. Not ideal for undoing corroded bolts. The ball ended allen key has a VERY small contact area inside the cap. so any great amount of pressure here will very likely round off the hex inside the cap. I undid my rusted cat bolts with the usual crank allen keys and a socket allen key; three sheared off, one undid.

[Jason M]

The useful ball end allen keys described have a rather limited use.

Eh? I could give you a dozen good uses on the S. They even make putting those awkward faring bolts back in a lot easier IMHO. Those little M6s on the exhaust bolts don't need much torque anyway do then so a ball head is sufficient. I've sheared a head off with one so they must transmit a fair amount of torque regardless of their surface area. You are rights though - you do have to be careeful to position then 'optimally' before applying the force.

Well I wouldn't be without my set anyway - top purchace

Jason

[scotty]

Managed to get the bolts out using a very small socket with an extension bar. Very intimidating making the first few turns of the wrench though as I was half expecting one to shear. All in bad condition with one being really bad. I've cleaned out the threads in the exhaust bracket and need to get some copper slip for putting the new stainless steel ones back in. A really worthwhile job well done though.