2011 Tri glide mufflers

[fordman55]

I always thought I was quit good at wrenching. But I am stumped. I just purchased a set of V&H double slash down rounds. I have changed many sets of mufflers in the past but when I got to my 2011 Tri glide I for the life of me can't figure out how to get the stock mufflers off. I can't get a wrench at to bolt closest to the back of the bike. Am I missing something?????

 

[iaff84]

The first time I removed mine I had to loosen clamp holding muffler in front. Then with a small 1/4 ratchet, loosen the front bolt at rear. This allowed me to slip muffler back a bit to get the small socket setup on rear bolt.
I can not think of a harder way to mount mufflers. Leave it to harley.
Hope this helps.
Dennis

 

[ray4ausa]

This is for Harley mechanics to spend time fighting this problem. It never fails to amuse me to see what "intelligent" designers do to accomplish a very easy solution to problems. From special tools to inaccessible fastner locations one wonders WHO is actually "drinking" on the job.

 

[fordman55]

The problem was that the rubber bushing that runs through the channel on the mounting bracket should be centered between the two nut locations on the muffler. On mine the rubber bushing was pushed to one side covering the bolt head. I was unable to get a wrench or socket on the bolt. I spent (4) hours cutting away the rubber with a razor knie to gain access to the bolt head. Now I need two new rubber bushings. I hope they don't cost HD,(hundred dollars).

 

[msocko3]

I believe it was through the mid 2010 MY when HD changed the design of this rubber part because the other one was popping out of the metal bracket causing the muffler to rattle. I agree it is a step in the wrong direction for the Trike. I replaced the old style on my 2010 and have had the same problem with the longer rubber riding onto the bolt. I took a long handled flat blade screwdriver and managed to use it to knock the rubber out of the way with a hammer.

 

[427dave]

I changed my mufflers also and believe it would be quicker and easier to remove the body. On the 2011 my rubber piece had slipped to the rear covering the bolt head also. Not a fun project.