FatShots...Use Stock Pipes, or Change to True Duals?

[R. M.]

On my 1998 Road King, my current configuration is Screamin' Eagle air cleaner and breather, SE-3 cam, high flow fuel injectors, Stage II ECM calibration, and a Thunderheader 2 into 1 exhaust. I would like to replace the Thunderheader with a FatShots 2 into 2 system, maintain my current level of overall satisfactory performance, but reduce my exhaust noise. Should I re-use the stock exhaust with the crossover, or purchase true dual header pipes. If I re-use the stock pipes, how many discs should I start with on the right side, and how many discs on the left side. Same question for the true dual header pipes. During dial-in, do you anticipate that I will be adding discs, or removing them, or both. Any other suggestions are welcome.

[bschultz]

The 2:1 is your best performance option. Going back to a stock head pipe is your best option. It's basically a performance compromise between the 2:1 and "true duals" and will result in the lowest overall sound levels and performance loss. The Supertrapp FatShots come with 12 discs per muffler. With your combination, I would suggest starting out with 12-14 discs on the right (if needed, stealing from the left, and not dropping below 8).

[R. M.]

Thank you for your prompt reply. I'll start with 14 discs on the right side and 10 on the left side.