While we're talking motorcycles: source for used parts?

[Monkeyleg]

I'm trying to find a clean set of header pipes for my '89 HD Springer. The rest of the bike looks great, but the chrome on the header pipes is all brown.

I've been scouring the internet, but haven't been able to find a set.

Any suggestions as to sites to check out?

[Gewehr98]

Chrome heat shields.

Honestly, I've never seen a set of chrome pipes nearest the cylinder heads stay that way, and I've tried all the anti-bluing pastes, polishes, etc.  I consider my drag pipes "fire blued" just like the nice Belgian Blueing on my old Browning Auto 5.   

[Monkeyleg]

Gewehr98, I have the stock chrome heat shields on the bike. I've even replaced them after the clamps broke off.

It's the area on the pipes between the heat shields and the mufflers that's turned brown. When I compare my bike to a new one, my exhaust system is the most obvious indicator of age. Next is the seat which, while in very good condition, is an 80's style seat.

I'm pretty particular about keeping my bike in good shape. Before EPA regulations drove the cost of chroming through the roof I'd get my header pipes re-chromed. Cost was about $150, but now would be three times that.

[Nick1911]

I always had trouble finding bike parts.  Often, I repaired/rebuilt parts if I could.  Other then that, eBay best source I had, and even that was spotty.

[charby]

I've been seeing a ton of HD parts on Des Moines Craigslist.

Have you thought about just going to aftermarket parts and updating your exhaust with something newer?

[mgdavis]

Vance and Hines, and a few others I'm sure, make double walled or heat shielded pipes that won't discolor. They cost a few hundred dollars, but it'll eliminate the issue in the future.

[Monkeyleg]

I know there's aftermarket exhaust systems, but I've always liked to keep my bike looking stock.

I guess I'll just have to watch Craig's List, Ebay, etc.

[sadlsor]

Monkeyleg, do a search for motorcycle parts, or used m/c parts. Most salvage yards are on a satellite network, so if one doesn't have what you need, he can usually find it around the country fairly quickly.

I just Googled "motorcycle parts broker" and the first 3 hits were used HD businesses. Also look for HD clubs / forums / email lists. Enthusiast groups are generally your best source for this kind of info; someone will have experience with the larger parts brokers / dismantlers, and can steer you away from the hassles.

Good luck. Google is your friend.

[charby]

You could try here also, they are in Western Iowa. I was checking them out after a friend of mine told me I should buy a wrecked bike and rebuild from there.

http://www.bentbikes.com/

[coppertales]

ebay.............it has kept my three 1982 Kawasakis running.  Otherwise, they would be beyond econimical to repair.....chris3