"Ultimate V&H Baffle"- Confirmed...!!

[Netnorske]

A huge shout out to VulcanE and DKDixie for this monster mod...!! Cliff has been kind enough to share his mechanical drawing freely and ever since he sent me one a few weeks back, I have been "in the hunt". They deserve all the credit for this mod so guys....many, many thanks to you my friends... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif!!

Today was the big day... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. My buddy Mike gifted them to me this afternoon. When I got home I went right to work. I slid the old "flashing wrapped" OEM baffles out of those big V&H tubes then took a wire brush and some sandpaper to the inside of the pipes.

I then gently slid the new custom made ones back in, a very nice perfect fit! I slightly tightened the bolts and was relieved they matched the holes in the pipe perfectly! Now it was time for the big moment....the one I had been waiting weeks for after reading DKDixie's original post about the "Ultimate V&H Baffle".

http://www.vulcanbagger.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=8958&start=0

I gently slid the key into the ignition...feeling like a kid in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory....not knowing if the candy I had in my pipes was gonna be a golden ticket....or just another mod.

She fired on the first touch of the starter button. I sat back and closed my eyes as the first waves of sound hit my eardrums and waited for my brain to decipher the soundwaves into something I could understand.

As the bike always does....it started with a bit of a high idle....then after a moment or two....it settled into that thump-thump rythm we all know and love so well. At that very moment...all I could think was.....OMFG..... http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif....!!!!!

These things sound completely SICK... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif! Like no other sound around...simply unbelievable!! Rain drops were just beginning to fall, but I jumped on and took her for a quick 2 mile sprint and back...just to make sure I wasn't dreaming! Judging by the "Wood" I was sporting....I don't believe I was... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif!

As soon as I was home and the bike had cooled....I removed the baffles, cleaned them up, and since they are made of stainless steel....I slathered them all around the outer edges with nickel anti-sieze. They slid back in with ease and I gave the bolts one final tightening before wiping off the excess goo .

I'll bet Mike spent 12 hours making these....so now I know why Cliff don't want to make any more.... ;). I started with a 6" piece of 4" OD Cold Roll Stainless Steel ($40.00 at Everett Steel). Mike used his expertise with a metal lathe to whittle these out. You will definitely need to know someone with mad skills...because I don't think you could afford to pay anyone to make these.

We did not drill the pin holes through the 54 degree beveled edge as the drawing shows....but rather just behind it so as to tap for the 5/16 set screw holding in the 1/4 brass pins.

Here are some pics from start to beautiful finish! If by chance you know someone who can make these for you....first thank VulcanE and DKDixie....then buy your skilled buddy the most expensive bottle you can afford....'cause it's definitely worth it!


http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/Pictures018.jpg

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/Pictures021.jpg

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/Pictures022.jpg

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/Pictures026.jpg

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/Pictures028.jpg

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/HPIM1332.jpg

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo187/netnorske/HPIM1334.jpg

[strobe]

Looks great, should make them look a lot like the Cobra pipes with billet tips. Should sound nice!

[borto1990]

thats great.. they make that big a difference eh. I found some brass stock at work and i was giong to start widdling them down here soon. I just hope I can get the 2 bolt holes to line up good enough!!!

[Netnorske]

thats great.. they make that big a difference eh. I found some brass stock at work and i was giong to start widdling them down here soon. I just hope I can get the 2 bolt holes to line up good enough!!!

They really lower the overall tone considerably....and do sound great...!!

[ice793]

I want some but i don't know anyone with a machine shop,nice look do you still have some low end torque?

[ringadingh]

I may just have to see if I can call in a favour, you make them sound like something I can't live without. I have my baffles wrapped in metal but if these baffles make that much of a difference in the sound I guess I'll have to see about getting some.

[Netnorske]

I may just have to see if I can call in a favour, you make them sound like something I can't live without. I have my baffles wrapped in metal but if these baffles make that much of a difference in the sound I guess I'll have to see about getting some.

Those guys swore these were better as they had the metal wrapped ones too....as did I. They were right...!

[dkdixie]

Great job with the pics and write-up!!

So glad you are happy with the sound.

And as far as Cliff making more.....its not that he would not, its just that he made them during working hours where his time is closely monitored. He used free time, breaks, shortened lunch hours, etc. Took him months, working with the little time available.

Someone out there will find a reasonable priced source.

[Netnorske]

I want some but i don't know anyone with a machine shop,nice look do you still have some low end torque?

I haven't yet had a chance to give it a good test, but the other guys say its all good in that department!

[bosko]

Hopefully these will become easy to get once I get myself a set of V&H, maybe next winter. http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif

Hope I can intercept you on your way to custer this summer so that I can have a listen.

[taranis]

Kris,

You're fired. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

No more mods, huh? There you were, the poster-child for all us recovering modaholics, and you have to go and get custom, 1-off baffles for your V&H.

Never mind the fact that none of us puny mortals get them from a regular store. Kinda like pouring salt in an open wound there buddy.

You are so fired. Fired and I'm gonna have to slap you with a wet salmon when/if we ever meet.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

(But I'm happy you like the mod! You had stock baffles in the V&H before - now it's lower/deeper sounding? How is it when you get on it? Not as loud? I've diddled with the idea of quieting my pipes a little bit...)

[nomad561]

Sounds like a mod I need to do and I think I know someone that is that talented.
Do you have any drawings or sketches with diminsions?

[strobe]

Sounds like a mod I need to do and I think I know someone that is that talented.
Do you have any drawings or sketches with diminsions?

There is a drawing on page 1 of this thread:

http://www.vulcanbagger.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=8958&start=0

[chuckster131]

Well I guess I will have to make a set for myself as well... :)

[Netnorske]

Well I guess I will have to make a set for myself as well... :)

Chuckster,
You will LOVE the sound of these... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif! If you look in the photos above (and in the orginal post) you will see the pin hole was drilled just BEHIND the 54 degree beveled edge....not THROUGH it like the drawing shows. Just a heads up!

[Netnorske]

Kris,

You're fired. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

No more mods, huh? There you were, the poster-child for all us recovering modaholics, and you have to go and get custom, 1-off baffles for your V&H.

Never mind the fact that none of us puny mortals get them from a regular store. Kinda like pouring salt in an open wound there buddy.

You are so fired. Fired and I'm gonna have to slap you with a wet salmon when/if we ever meet.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

(But I'm happy you like the mod! You had stock baffles in the V&H before - now it's lower/deeper sounding? How is it when you get on it? Not as loud? I've diddled with the idea of quieting my pipes a little bit...)



LMAO.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif! These are NOT 1-of-a-kind baffles...!! There are at least THREE sets out there that I know of.... ;). I just tagged along and am so thrilled with this sound that I just HAD to share... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif. If anyone gets fired....its VulcanE and DKDixie for starting this new fad. I'm just the messenger and remember...you're not supposed to shoot the messenger ;)! Also, I am truly fortunate to know someone with the skills to pull it off...

The sound at idle is much lower, deeper and richer than with the flashing wrapped OEM's, much like a Nascar Race Car http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif. I have not yet had a chance to get it up to speed on the big slab yet...but Cliff says the lower tone also mellows it a bit at speed too.

[Jared]

I was planning on using a piece of aluminum. Is there a reason that you used steel? I called down to the metal mart and I can get a piece of 5x4round aluminum for $30sh. They also mentioned that if they have something in their scrap pile that it would even be cheaper.

I plan on making them this weekend. My cousin is a machinist and has his own lathe. He thinks, after looking at the drawing, that we should be able to make them in one good afternoon. I too will post some pics and my impression after I get them done.

[chuckster131]

I don't see any problem making them out of aluminum at all, I myself picked up some steel 4150 easy machine today at super great deal, so that is what I'm using. I would get aluminum but didn't find any scrap pieces. :(


I was planning on using a piece of aluminum. Is there a reason that you used steel? I called down to the metal mart and I can get a piece of 5x4round aluminum for $30sh. They also mentioned that if they have something in their scrap pile that it would even be cheaper.

I plan on making them this weekend. My cousin is a machinist and has his own lathe. He thinks, after looking at the drawing, that we should be able to make them in one good afternoon. I too will post some pics and my impression after I get them done.

[Jared]

I don't see any problem making them out of aluminum at all, I myself picked up some steel 4150 easy machine today at super great deal, so that is what I'm using. I would get aluminum but didn't find any scrap pieces. :(


I was planning on using a piece of aluminum. Is there a reason that you used steel? I called down to the metal mart and I can get a piece of 5x4round aluminum for $30sh. They also mentioned that if they have something in their scrap pile that it would even be cheaper.

I plan on making them this weekend. My cousin is a machinist and has his own lathe. He thinks, after looking at the drawing, that we should be able to make them in one good afternoon. I too will post some pics and my impression after I get them done.

I was able to get the aluminum for $32. Did think that was too expensive. Maybe I should have scavenged through their scrap pile for a piece of steel.

[Netnorske]

I thought about aluminum...but the guy who made them for me is a crew chief on a car racing team and he thought the exhaust might be too corrosive on the aluminum over time. Maybe....maybe not.

[chuckster131]

Maybe over time it would be, but steel on the other hand is going to rust after time.. I plan on painting them with high heat BBQ paint.
I would have gone with the aluminum like I said, but didn't want to pay premium price as that would have been allot more than the piece I found of steel.


I thought about aluminum...but the guy who made them for me is a crew chief on a car racing team and he thought the exhaust might be too corrosive on the aluminum over time. Maybe....maybe not.

[Netnorske]

Okay, I got out and gave these things a good workout tonight. I have to say, that this custom baffle mod will definitely wake up the neighborhood. If quieter pipes is what you are after....this mod ain't it!

They are noticeably louder than the flashing wrapped mod for sure, but they do sound wicked as hell, especially at idle http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif! I'm not sure how the little woman will like them yet...but they are without question 100% big V-twin attitude.

I pulled up to the gas pump while an old guy (80' ish) in a walker was getting out of his car. He stopped and stared at me until I shut the bike off. I was almost certain he was gonna flip me some sh*t, but all he said was...."That's quite a machine ya got there...I'd be afraid I'd drop it..." http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. I took that as a compliment!

They are still pretty aggressive at speed too....and I would say that any multi-day longhaul trips will most likely require earplugs with these things. They should be okay for day rides....but I don't think you are gonna want to listen to that growl for days on end without some relief. Just one man's opinion....

That said....if you like an aggressive, deep, rich sound....you won't go wrong here, but if quieter and mellower is your style....not so much. However....if you have V&H pipes...quieter and mellower is probably not you anyways.... ;)!

Two thumbs up and heck....if the little woman complains too much I can always slip the OEM baffles back in for the long hauls, right....?? ;).

Chuckster....you are right about the steel probably rusting a bit over time. I think it will require me too "service" them on occasion. You know...pull them out once in awhile, hit them with a wire brush and re-smear them with anti-sieze. The aluminum would be much easier to deal with and quicker to cut I would assume....

[dogdoc]

Well I am glad you guys are enjoying your new baffles. it appears to be just an expensive thing that nobody else can afford unless your friend is a expert machinst. most of us avg joes will have to make due with our common V&H or de-bugglagled stock pipes. Enjoy them guys.

[timebandit]

Me go shop for aluminum on Thursday! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[Jared]

Is there something that I could paint or cover the aluminum with in order to protect. If possible, I'd like to keep it silver and not paint it back.

[ice793]

What about powder coating?How was the low end torque?

[dogdoc]

bet it will make you do a burn out for a 1/4 mile, maybe...LOL

[bobzinger]

Maybe get the aluminum powder coated or anodized silver.

[ice793]

I think you've started something,one of the guy's I work with his dad has a machine shop and he said he would talk to him to see if he wants to tackle it,i'll give him the drawing and see what he can do for me, can't wait.

[Netnorske]

I think if you are to coat them with something...you might want to shave the diameter a couple more thousandths to accommodate the coating. They fit very tightly and it would be tough to get them into the pipe if they were powder coated at the original diameter (3.8500 I believe)...just a thought...

I think I will just plan to pull mine every couple months, re-coat them with anti-sieze on the edges and maybe smear some clear silicone on the front and rear facings to help reduce any rusting possibilities. The anti-sieze definitely helped in sliding them in and out...!!

[VulcanE]

How was the low end torque?

About the torque, I will say the first time I went down the road after installing these, as I was winding through the gears, I could feel a noticeable increase in power from the 1800 to 2500 RPM range.

Kris, Glad you like them


[/quote]I work with his dad has a machine shop and he said he would talk to him to see if he wants to tackle it,i'll give him the drawing and see what he can do for me, can't wait.[/quote]

Make sure to use the "NEW" drawing located here
http://www.vulcanbagger.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=9502
It has the corrected dimensions for the location of the 1/4" pin.

[paul]

I've got a guy working on a set as we speak. Took the drawing and info to a friend and co-worker whose dad works with machinists. Turns out his dad is also a big Harley advocate. He said his dad just about wet himself when he saw the baffles and absolutely love the things.

Maybe I'll get a break on the price http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. The guy said that stainless would be the material to use and polish it bright. Would look awsome viewed from the back. We'll See. http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif

[dogdoc]

aren't friends great. :-)

[Jared]

Okay, I got out and gave these things a good workout tonight. I have to say, that this custom baffle mod will definitely wake up the neighborhood. If quieter pipes is what you are after....this mod ain't it!

They are noticeably louder than the flashing wrapped mod for sure, but they do sound wicked as hell, especially at idle http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif! I'm not sure how the little woman will like them yet...but they are without question 100% big V-twin attitude.

I pulled up to the gas pump while an old guy (80' ish) in a walker was getting out of his car. He stopped and stared at me until I shut the bike off. I was almost certain he was gonna flip me some sh*t, but all he said was...."That's quite a machine ya got there...I'd be afraid I'd drop it..." http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. I took that as a compliment!

They are still pretty aggressive at speed too....and I would say that any multi-day longhaul trips will most likely require earplugs with these things. They should be okay for day rides....but I don't think you are gonna want to listen to that growl for days on end without some relief. Just one man's opinion....

That said....if you like an aggressive, deep, rich sound....you won't go wrong here, but if quieter and mellower is your style....not so much. However....if you have V&H pipes...quieter and mellower is probably not you anyways.... ;)!

Two thumbs up and heck....if the little woman complains too much I can always slip the OEM baffles back in for the long hauls, right....?? ;).

Chuckster....you are right about the steel probably rusting a bit over time. I think it will require me too "service" them on occasion. You know...pull them out once in awhile, hit them with a wire brush and re-smear them with anti-sieze. The aluminum would be much easier to deal with and quicker to cut I would assume....





There not as loud a de-baffled are they?

[meat]

I've got a shop looking at this for me. I did'nt know about the new drawing. Is it a big change you are talking about in the new drawnig that would effect the price of making them?

[Netnorske]

I've got a shop looking at this for me. I did'nt know about the new drawing. Is it a big change you are talking about in the new drawnig that would effect the price of making them?

Meat,
In the first drawing...the pin holes are drilled through the 54 degree beveled edge. Thats how Cliff built his....without a set screw and using the pipe itself to hold the pin in place.

He built DKDixie's...and I built mine.....according to the new drawing....allowing for a set screw to hold the pins in place. It shouldn't make any difference in the cost of making them....good luck!

[Netnorske]

Okay, I got out and gave these things a good workout tonight. I have to say, that this custom baffle mod will definitely wake up the neighborhood. If quieter pipes is what you are after....this mod ain't it!

They are noticeably louder than the flashing wrapped mod for sure, but they do sound wicked as hell, especially at idle http://s2.images.proboards.com/shocked.gif! I'm not sure how the little woman will like them yet...but they are without question 100% big V-twin attitude.

I pulled up to the gas pump while an old guy (80' ish) in a walker was getting out of his car. He stopped and stared at me until I shut the bike off. I was almost certain he was gonna flip me some sh*t, but all he said was...."That's quite a machine ya got there...I'd be afraid I'd drop it..." http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. I took that as a compliment!

They are still pretty aggressive at speed too....and I would say that any multi-day longhaul trips will most likely require earplugs with these things. They should be okay for day rides....but I don't think you are gonna want to listen to that growl for days on end without some relief. Just one man's opinion....

That said....if you like an aggressive, deep, rich sound....you won't go wrong here, but if quieter and mellower is your style....not so much. However....if you have V&H pipes...quieter and mellower is probably not you anyways.... ;)!

Two thumbs up and heck....if the little woman complains too much I can always slip the OEM baffles back in for the long hauls, right....?? ;).

Chuckster....you are right about the steel probably rusting a bit over time. I think it will require me too "service" them on occasion. You know...pull them out once in awhile, hit them with a wire brush and re-smear them with anti-sieze. The aluminum would be much easier to deal with and quicker to cut I would assume....





There not as loud a de-baffled are they?

I have never run de-baffled so I can't comment. These things might rattle some pictures in the house when idling in the garage.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif....but they do sound SWEEET!

[Jared]

There not as loud a de-baffled are they?

I have never run de-baffled so I can't comment. These things might rattle some pictures in the house when idling in the garage.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif....but they do sound SWEEET!

You ought to pull the baffles out and start it up. I wonder if there is much of a deference?

[dkdixie]

I have never run de-baffled so I can't comment. These things might rattle some pictures in the house when idling in the garage.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif....but they do sound SWEEET!

You ought to pull the baffles out and start it up. I wonder if there is much of a deference?

With no baffle, sound is extremely loud. Plus you lose torque.

[Jared]

[quote="Utah Motorcyclist":zul8t3mb]

You ought to pull the baffles out and start it up. I wonder if there is much of a deference?

With no baffle, sound is extremely loud. Plus you lose torque.[/quote:zul8t3mb]

I've pulled the baffles and it is EXTREMELY loud. Too loud, but has a nice tone. The way he was describing the sound level made me question if there gonna be too loud. I doubt it though.

I plan on making mine tomorrow and saturday if we don't finish them. I'll post my impressions soon.

[ice793]

Make sure to use the "NEW" drawing located here
http://www.vulcanbagger.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?t=9502
It has the corrected dimensions for the location of the 1/4" pin.

Yes i gave him the updated drawing thanks for the heads up though. Man i can't wait.

[Netnorske]

You guys who are making these....be sure to let everyone know what you think of them. They ARE louder than the flashing wrapped baffles...but not substantially so. You will have to determine your own comfort level for decibels.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif....but you will turn heads....no question... ;) http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif!

[ice793]

I love the sound of my pipes without the baffles but i dont like having no low end torque,so i hope these do the trick.

[Netnorske]

I love the sound of my pipes without the baffles but i dont like having no low end torque,so i hope these do the trick.

Worry not Grasshopper....it will be all good... ;)!

[Jared]

Man I'm getting excited!! I will start making mine tomorrow. :)

[paul]

My friend's machinist came back after looking at the drawings and told me he could create a set of baffles from stainless for $175.oo. This is drive out including material. I don't remember seeing any pricing here, but how does that compare with the rates in other places?

If anyone is interrested, he said he'd be happy to make a hundred more. Supposed to have mine ready in about a week. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[ringadingh]

Im not sure what others have paid, Im assuming they did it themselves or have had a friend make them for no more than the cost of materials. A $175.00 doesn't sound bad at all, considering the cost of material and a few hours of labour. I doubt that I could make them in a day.

[dkdixie]

If y'all keep after Joe (Chuckster)......and talk him into making them, believe he will be 80+ dollars cheaper than 175.00.
I know he's thinking about it....and needs to make a pair for himself!!

[ice793]

Keep us in the know if he decides to do it.

[borto1990]

So far I have 3 hours into mine on the lathe. just have to drill them out now. I'm sure once you get it down, if doing manually, that time will go down as well. If someone has the pleasure of cnc in their garage, they can just watch it will drinking a beverage of their choice!!

[dogdoc]

Sounds good at $100 a set, BUT we havent even heard them to know if we love it. Seems it wouls be alot louder since your removing the stock baffle(correct). i took mine out for about 5 minutes, too damn loud even for me. keep us informed.

[Netnorske]

BUT we havent even heard them to know if we love it....

I have....I do..... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif!

[dkdixie]

Sounds good at $100 a set, BUT we havent even heard them to know if we love it. Seems it wouls be alot louder since your removing the stock baffle(correct). i took mine out for about 5 minutes, too damn loud even for me. keep us informed.

I'm sure you'll hear some opinions from those attending the S/E Spring Rally the end of this month. Cliff and I will be there.....

[borto1990]

well, just got mine installed. have not riden her yet.. it's raining here so I am sitting in the garage twittling thumbs waiting for the UPS truck to deliver my 7 inch k & n filter so I can let her run. first start up though.. LOVE IT............... really not that loud. When i pulled all that baffle material out and looked at that 2 inch piece of bronze I thought dam, this is gonna be loud.. but it wasn't.. it did get the attention of the girlfriend who almost immediatly pounded on the glass to the garage informing me the baby was sleeping.. so here I sit again, watching the rain waiting for the UPS man. Good job guys. so far I think it's a keeper!!

[dogdoc]

it surprising nobody has put a sound clip on here if they do sound sooo good. ????

[Jared]

They are time consuming to make. I don' think there are too many that have made them yet. Only 4 or 5 people. I finished one last Saturday and will hopefully have time to finish the other one this Saturday. It took me about 5 or 6 hours to finish the first one. I can't really give you my opinion with only baffle finished, but when I'm done I'll post a sound clip.

[lasse]

I´m gonna make a couple to test. I´m so fortunate that I
work as a turn/mill machinist.. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif . I also calculate on the
jobs we take in, and my estimate is that it´s gonna take
me about 30 minutes to make two. Including drilling and
threading..Don´t kill me http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[dogdoc]

Thx Utah for your sound clip in advance, will be looking forward to hear the baffles.

[borto1990]

yea, I work in machine repair, so I have access to lathes, bridgeports ect.. I'm no machinist by any means but I get to play in the dirt anyways... i figure it took me about 5 hours to make mine, thats with NO proper planning.. not having the rights drills, tooling ect and having to remove set ups during working hours. I would say now that they are done, if I had everything there i needed I could do a set in 2 to 3 hours, using 4 inch OD and 2 inch ID stock. not bad... If the rumors are true that chuckster is thinking of these for a hundred bucks.. I'd say that's a bargain for 2 your door service.

[borto1990]

ok, filter is on.. I still think it sounds good.. still raining though.. one thing is when it's in the garage and I crack the throttle, I hear almost a whistle sound for a moment. something high pitched anyways. don't know if I would hear it behind the bike or out in the open yet.. anyone else have this?

[strobe]

Should be the sound of the air rushing into the intake. It is noticeably louder with the 'open' intake now.

[borto1990]

no, I mean, I do hear that now.. I actually like the open filter.. thought I was a closed bowl guy!! however, the sound I hear is coming from the rear of the pipes

[Netnorske]

Okay everyone....I have what I think is an important update regarding these custom baffles.

After riding for a couple weeks with the custom baffles in place just as you see in the photos at the beginning of this thread, I noticed two very distinct things.

1) These babies were pretty darn loud. They sound awesome at idle, but the exhaust note at speed is piercing....making highway cruising a bit challenging on the ears.

2) Given the free flow of exhaust gases and the resulting loss of back-pressure, I noticed a slight loss of low end torque...mostly in the high end gears at speed.

I expressed my concerns with both VulcanE and DKDixie. Turns out that Dick (DKDixie) had made another mod to his baffles to address my very concerns. He sent me a photo and I went right to work.

I bought two 4" Stainless Steel floor drain covers at Lowe's. They come attached to some PVC in the plumbing section so you will need to buy the whole piece to get the covers (about $6.00 per).

I then had my buddy Mike (who made these for me to begin with) shave just enough off of the back edge of the baffle to make a small flat spot. We then drilled and tapped four small holes to screw the cover to the back edge. The original holes on the cover are too far from the edge to use...so drill four new ones.

The covers are just a hair larger than the baffles at 4.000, so once attached, Mike put them back on the lathe to take the edge down to the original 3.850. I put these back in the pipes tonight and took the bike for a good long ride. All I can say is no more tinkering....these are perfect http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif!

The results are as follows:

1) The sound at idle is every bit as nice as before, and the overall sound is deep and rich. While still having a nice growl, the exhaust note now is not nearly as biting and has a mellower tone at speed in all gears. I will now be able to cruise all day long without my ears hurting... ;)!

2) I picked up some back-pressure and regained my low end torque and was able to get up to 100 mph indicated with no problem whatsoever.... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif!!

If you are making a set of these.....this is a step I think you will be well served to add to the process. These are now the perfect combination of sound and torque....and I am one very, very happy camper! Best of luck to those of you making these...I think you will really enjoy them!



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[borto1990]

how many people are using this? just you and dkdixie? how long has he ran his? I just got mine in tonight, no ride on her yet.. I'll have to swing by lowes I guess. it's gettin DARN close to riding weather so I hope this cures it all or I'm gonna have to put stock baffles and quite messin around till winter!!!

[Jared]

I thought they were the ultimate baffle before this mod? What are they now, the "Happy Camper baffles"? J/K

This is the first mention of loss in back pressure and them being too loud. Was the loss in pressure noticeable?

As I was making these I was wondering how much thought went into these. You could probably just cut a hole in the middle of a 4" round piece and then just lathe it down to fit in you exhaust. After putting this screen/cover on, I don't see a purpose for tapering it on the ends. Would there be a reason to taper it?

[Netnorske]

I think it really depends on your taste and tolerance. Some people like louder pipes than others. I like'em a bit on the loud side, but after about 300 miles on those things....I was thinking they could be toned down just a bit and I would be happy.

This cured it. As for the loss in back-pressure....it wasn't huge...especially for around town. I just noticed it a bit with the wife aboard at higher speeds.

Remember fellas....these are a work in progress and definitely worthy of experimentation....so feel free to mill them any way you see fit... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cheesy.gif. My bet is that anything close to these will produce a much richer and deeper tone....so try some things to see what you like! I love these the way I have them now and will not be doing any more tinkering... ;)!

[ringadingh]

What if you screwed the stainless steel plates from Lowes to the inside of the baffle so they wouldn't be as noticeable once they are installed. I think it would give a cleaner look.

[Jared]

He has them mounted on the inside of the baffle. You shouldn't notice it much at all.

[Netnorske]

What if you screwed the stainless steel plates from Lowes to the inside of the baffle so they wouldn't be as noticeable once they are installed. I think it would give a cleaner look.

They are on the inside of the baffles..... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[borto1990]

ringadingh. Unless I built mine wrong. the radius side is the "outside" that shows when you look up the pipe. the taper end went to the inside with the stainless mesh bolted to it.. netnorkse, about how much did you have to shave to get a bid enough flat.. if they are 2 inches are they like 1.750 now plus the floor drain?

[Jared]

The, if I remember right, 54' degree angle on the inside of the ultimate baffle is the same angle that the stock baffles have on the inside. I was thinking there might have been some sort of reason for that angle. Most likely, after putting a screen on, you could probably just leave that side flat. Right? The angle isn't going to effect anything any longer. Same with the 1/4 bar. Most likely isn't necessary if you planning on putting a screen on.

[Netnorske]

ringadingh. Unless I built mine wrong. the radius side is the "outside" that shows when you look up the pipe. the taper end went to the inside with the stainless mesh bolted to it.. netnorkse, about how much did you have to shave to get a bid enough flat.. if they are 2 inches are they like 1.750 now plus the floor drain?

If you look at the first photo...you can just see the flat edge through the hole. It's only about 1/4 inch or so...

[Netnorske]

The, if I remember right, 54' degree angle on the inside of the ultimate baffle is the same angle that the stock baffles have on the inside. I was thinking there might have been some sort of reason for that angle. Most likely, after putting a screen on, you could probably just leave that side flat. Right? The angle isn't going to effect anything any longer. Same with the 1/4 bar. Most likely isn't necessary if you planning on putting a screen on.

Utah,
Look at the photo closely. Without the bevel....not as much of the screen would be open to airflow. Your overall opening would be very limited. JMHO.

[VulcanE]

There was a little thought that went into the design of these http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. I had been running the flashing wrapped baffles for a pretty good while before I made the first set of these. On My bike, they significantly increased the torque from the 1800-2500 RPM range. Over-all power was also increased. It'll jump up to 115 mph (GPS indicated) in about 1/2 a heart beat (with the wife aboard ). Although, on DK's bike, he lost some of his torque with these, that's why he came up with the mesh on the inside. I suppose that different bikes will perform differently with the same mods. The 54 degree angle on the inlet side is the same as the original V&H baffles. If your going to use the mesh cover, I would suggest some type of angle to collect the exhaust and funnel it to the center. I love the way it sounds now, and at cruising speeds, they seem to be quieter than the flashing wrapped baffles were. http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif

[Jared]

I guess I'll have to finish mine and try them for a week or two before I add the screen.

[borto1990]

ok guys.. here is another confirmation.. I got my "ultimates" finished last night. took it for a 120 mile ride this afternoon.. I loved the sound at idle, but as stated, when I cracked the throttle, I heard a whistle, or as dkdixie thinks a "buzz". well, during the ride, I noticed some poppin on decel. Throttle was not that impressive to me.. I assume this is the torque all are questioning. Now, remember, i only have 600 miles on the girl, so, after chuckster plate, power commander mods.. plus baffles I was ready for some fun.. but it shortly fizzled.. HOWEVER... I came home and tried the "grid".. MUCHO BETTER. Went on a 25 mile ride. the whistle was gone, roll on the throttle was absolutely more better. the noise of em at highway speed is at least cut in half with the grid compared to the dowel however I think they sound better at idle. a tad deeper yet without the "whistle". The popping at decel dissapeared for the most part, have a touch, but nothing crazy. It's odd how different bikes on the same model have different results.. cliff's being fine with the pin, some of ours needing grids. overall, for now I guess I am happy.. as I said, I didn't have enough miles on her to really tell a difference between all the mods.. She scoots right along though, so I can't complain.. thanks for the update guys..

[Jared]

Sweet. I'm glad your happy with it.

[Netnorske]

ok guys.. here is another confirmation.. I got my "ultimates" finished last night. took it for a 120 mile ride this afternoon.. I loved the sound at idle, but as stated, when I cracked the throttle, I heard a whistle, or as dkdixie thinks a "buzz". well, during the ride, I noticed some poppin on decel. Throttle was not that impressive to me.. I assume this is the torque all are questioning. Now, remember, i only have 600 miles on the girl, so, after chuckster plate, power commander mods.. plus baffles I was ready for some fun.. but it shortly fizzled.. HOWEVER... I came home and tried the "grid".. MUCHO BETTER. Went on a 25 mile ride. the whistle was gone, roll on the throttle was absolutely more better. the noise of em at highway speed is at least cut in half with the grid compared to the dowel however I think they sound better at idle. a tad deeper yet without the "whistle". The popping at decel dissapeared for the most part, have a touch, but nothing crazy. It's odd how different bikes on the same model have different results.. cliff's being fine with the pin, some of ours needing grids. overall, for now I guess I am happy.. as I said, I didn't have enough miles on her to really tell a difference between all the mods.. She scoots right along though, so I can't complain.. thanks for the update guys..

Borto,
Sounds like your experience was/is similar to mine. Although I added the "grid"...I opted to leave my 1/4 pins in place, so I have both! For me...it is a fantastic combination....awesome sound at idle AND a deep, rich, but not overbearing rumble at speed... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif!

[borto1990]

yea, I saved my pin. I'll try the both combo when I get some time to see if I see, hear and feel any difference with them both. I'm happy with the grid though.....

[Jared]

I think I might try to find a grid material that is flexible so that I can bend it to fit the angle of the inside of the baffle.

[paul]

I think I might try to find a grid material that is flexible so that I can bend it to fit the angle of the inside of the baffle.

That's exactly where my head went as I was reading the updated info and discussion above. Possibly install the "screening " material and carefully work it to conform to the contours of the back of the baffle. Man, you must be some kind of a genius. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[Netnorske]

I think I might try to find a grid material that is flexible so that I can bend it to fit the angle of the inside of the baffle.

That's exactly where my head went as I was reading the updated info and discussion above. Possibly install the "screening " material and carefully work it to conform to the contours of the back of the baffle. Man, you must be some kind of a genius. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

I thought about that too, but you might end up only utilizing about half of the surface area of the drain cover...just a thought. Who knows if that makes a difference or not, but given the new-ness and evolving discoveries of these things...I would be curious to find out. Keep us posted Utah.... :)

[Jared]

I will....lol. I need to just finish the second baffle. I don't always have access to the shop so it's a slow process for me. I'm hoping to get it done this Saturday.

I like the looks of the drain cover but I think I might try something different. I'll test a few thinks. Maybe some different types of metal screening. I got loads of that around here.

I wonder if you added a few other 1/4 bars inside the baffle if that might help? You could add 3 or 4 of them inside there at different angles. That might be too much work though.

[borto1990]

the drain I bought from lowes I think is flexible enough to conform I think if you want to try it. plus it's only 5 bucks. If you were to paint it flat black before you screw it to the baffle I don't think it would be seen unless ya get on your knees and poke your eyeball at it. don't know why, but when I had the pin I had a whistle that was kind of annoying.. so I am not sure what multiple pins would be like. for me, with my 08 the performance difference was hands down better with the screen. I'd be curious though on how people adapt these and if they become enhanced even more...

[borto1990]

Took the ride to the dealer yesterday to let them do the first oil change. Yea I was a tad over but finally able to get out and ride the last 2 days.. I tell ya.. the dealer went nuts over the exhaust.. everybody came out to listen and ask what was done.. I gave credit where it was due.. told em I wasn't an originator, just a copier!!! Told them about kawanow also.. they looked it up and saved the site. They also liked chucksters plate and the K&N.. once again, good job guys

[kawiman]

I have been watching this thread with great interest. Pretty kool watching this mod develope.
My VnH baggers have just the right decibel level but I want a more meaty sound. I still have the original baffles but the wrap has got to be all but gone by now with 22,000 miles on them. I havnt taken them out yet to take a look. Started to but one of the screws has been ground down some and I couldnt get the allen wrench in there so I just said forget it.

I would be interested in buying a set of these "Ultimate Baffles" if anyone decides to start producing them for sale. http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif Another alternative might be these
https://bigcitythunder.com/shop/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=4&cat=Original+Thunder+Monster+Baffle+%3Cbr%3E+Part+ %23+20 03

Anyone heard of them or tried them?

[kawiman]

Well ic the link didnt work so just go to bigcitythunder.com, click on products and look at #2003.

[emo]

Please let me know if anyone is going to machine these and set them up for sale. I would love to have them for my bike. Recently I took out my baffles and put in an application in my head pipes from Big City Thunder and the bike sounds wonderful. But on the down side, not having the back pressure of the baffles made me lose a bit on the bottom. So if they will be made/machined and put up as an item for sale, I would truly love to get my hands on a pair of these.

Thanks,
EMO

[dkdixie]

Please let me know if anyone is going to machine these and set them up for sale. I would love to have them for my bike. Recently I took out my baffles and put in an application in my head pipes from Big City Thunder and the bike sounds wonderful. But on the down side, not having the back pressure of the baffles made me lose a bit on the bottom. So if they will be made/machined and put up as an item for sale, I would truly love to get my hands on a pair of these.

Thanks,
EMO

What did you find wrong with Thunder Monsters other than low end torque? Too loud?

Keep after Chuckster on the baffles!

I suspect if he makes a set for himself, will consider offering for sale. I believe he will make a set, when he finds the time.
How 'bout it Joe??

[Scoot]

Got a friend at work and he said he could make me a set out of Brass. Going to be a government project so it will take awhile to make.

Can't wait to hear the difference, I have the baffles cut in half.

[Netnorske]

Yesterday (Sunday) I went on a group ride with about 30 bikes of all different makes and models. Included were a Vulcan Drifter, Vulcan 750, a V2K, and best of all another Nomad and yes...I spread the love... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif!

Anyways....I had four different people come up to me and tell me how awesome my bike sounded. A Harley rider, the V2K rider, a Honda VTX rider...and of course the Nomad rider! He had V&H pipes too....but they didn't sound like mine... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif. Honestly....my bike stole the show in the sound department... http://s2.images.proboards.com/cool.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif ;)...!!!

Get after it fellas...... http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif!!!

[timebandit]

I just got the baffles from the machinist yesterday and they look awsome! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

Id the screen part really necessary? (saw the tread about them once they were finished ::))

as soon As I get a chance got the baffles, dual cadmann and the tfi to install http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif

soon really soon they will be all installed http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

[Netnorske]

I just got the baffles from the machinist yesterday and they look awsome! http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

Id the screen part really necessary? (saw the tread about them once they were finished ::))

as soon As I get a chance got the baffles, dual cadmann and the tfi to install http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif http://s2.images.proboards.com/tongue.gif

soon really soon they will be all installed http://s2.images.proboards.com/grin.gif

Try them as they are first. They may work fine for you just the way they are. Give it a few hundred miles and see. If you lose too much low-end torque and/or they are too loud for you....add the drain covers (screens). That will increase your back-pressure for more torque...and tone them down a tad. They will still sound awesome...just not quite AS loud as without the screens. It seems each individual bike has a unique response to these custom baffles.

Let us know your impressions as soon as you get a chance....inquiring minds want to know.... ;)!

[Jared]

I was hoping to have mine finished this weekend, but my cousin is making them for free and so I don't want to push him too hard to waste his weekends on me.

I wish he would though :)

[Jared]

I have finally finished my baffles. I've been machining them with my cousin during spare time and it's taken longer than expected.

It was well worth the work and wait. They sound GREAT!!! I've only heard them at idle because it has been pouring rain all day, but I'll take it out for a long ride tomorrow.