Cleaning Headers

[CadmannUK]

Hi Guys,

The headers on my 06 XB9SX are quite messy. What do you guys use to clean up the headers?

Thanks
Cad

 

[user_deleted]

cad: here's 2 helpful links. methods about as varied as opinions on which primary fluid offers smoothest shifting. also you can ask via PM neilrl79 (Neil) about his. he just did his over the winter and they look stunning. and he's super lazy so you know he used the easy/simple/cheap method.

http://badweatherbikers.com/buell/messages/32777/272308.html?1181346411

https://www.buellxb.com/forum/showthread.php?17693-Polishing-headers-does-this-sound-right

 

[neilrl79]

cad: here's 2 helpful links. methods about as varied as opinions on which primary fluid offers smoothest shifting. also you can ask via PM neilrl79 (Neil) about his. he just did his over the winter and they look stunning. and he's super lazy so you know he used the easy/simple/cheap method.[/url]

 

[neilrl79]

I wet sanded progressively starting with 220 and ending with 1500. Then used grey and green rubbing compounds on a bench buffer. Then finished by hand with Mother's Mag Polish.

 

[Cooter]

Hey Neil, you wanna trade for a rusty one?? :eagerness:

 

[TPEHAK]

How long do they last after polishing? So you removed the original headers coating, will it cause accelerated rusting?

 

[34nineteen]

hey neil, you wanna trade for one with a very nice and rare patina?? :eagerness:

fixed it for you.

Yw,

34:19

 

[neilrl79]

How long do they last after polishing? So you removed the original headers coating, will it cause accelerated rusting?

They don't rust but it will tarnish a bit. It really depends on upkeep and what kind of moisture and dirt that come in contact with. If I hit them once every few rides with the mothers for a couple minutes they stay looking pretty good.

Hey Neil, you wanna trade for a rusty one?? :eagerness:

Nah. I'd be happy to set you up for a fee though.

 

[Cooter]

How long do they last after polishing? So you removed the original headers coating, will it cause accelerated rusting?

Theres no coating on the tubing. I'll guess it's stainless steel (and probably aluminized) so it's rust resistant because is has only a small amount of ferrous compounds in it.

 

[Cooter]

34:19:
I should sell these completely original 'barn find' factory headers for at least $1000 as they are untouched by idiots who would mod them to look amazing and shiny. Erik meant for them to get pitted and dull, so thats the way I'll treat them in my Buell museum.

:angel: