Hello DAWG,
I always enjoy your posts. I am curious about your comment regarding "the big torgue dip" that is common with the Thunderheader, and the "fix" for it. I was under the impression that generally the 2 into 1 pipes produced the best overall performance on the V-Twin (especially low end torgue), and that the Thunderheader was the best of these 2 into 1 exhaust systems. I know that the Thunderheader is using 1-3/4 primary piping which is the same size as standard EVO an TC stock exhaust. Generally speaking, smaller diameter primary with longer length, would mean great low-end torgue. Couple that with the Thunderheader collector system and anti-reversion characteristics, I am surprised that there is a low-end torgue problem. I know that some of the other pipes with the large diameter and/or stepped primary primaries are looking for peak horsepower and torgue readings. These pipes do not really help you with power in your normal 2-4000 RPM driving range.
The Thunderheader only comes in one pipe size (1-3/4) and was introduced when 80 ci EVO motors were the latest technology. It was my understanding at that time that the Thunderheader was a true performance pipe and that there was infact a torgue dip in the lower RPM range. But I wonder if that holds true with the Screaming Eagle motors that are almost 30% larger in displacement (103 ci). With 80 ci the Thunderheader is a high-end pipe; with 103 cubes and the higher throughput of the CVO motors, the Thunderheader is actually more of a low-end pipe.
I have always read Harley V-Twin exhaust dyno comparisons with great interest, as the differences in performance between different styles and makes were dramatic. Is there a consensus as to whose 2 into 1 pipe is the better performer for 103 displacement motors in the 2-5000 RPM range? For a cam, I will be going with the RedShift 575 grind, perfect for my RPM range. I have not seen any dyno comparisons in the magazines lately; are there any good magazine articles out there? By the way, what is the "fix" you are referring to?
Just for reference, I have a 2005 SE Fat Boy that I put a Thunderheader on and tuned with a SERT. The performance improvement was dramatic. The same amount of throttle and time that used to get you to 2800-3000 RPM now blasts you to 4000 RPM. It is really running beautiful, and you cannot beat the Thunderheader sound. Really appreciate the feedback. Thanks