Is it necessary? I am used to BMW which usually uses nothing except a header gasket. the pipe joints are slip fit and don't leak. I usually use antiseize on the pipe joints to make removal easier later. The clamps hold the joint sealed and secure.What Triumph uses is a high temp silicone sealer at the muffler/header joint. The anti-sieze is a good on the header bolts where the headers bolt to the cylinder head.
When I put my Predators on I didn't use anything to seal them and I've had no problems with any leaks. I've put 3000 miles on the bike since installing the pipes.Can I get away with nothing or do I really need something?
My experience;Can I get away with nothing or do I really need something?
Well, the Triumph workshop manual states "Apply 4cc of clear silicone sealant to each header pipe at the joint with the silencer. Spread the sealer evenly all around the joint". I don't worry about whether I'm using 4cc of sealant or not, but I certainly use it. Triumph doesn't specify (and I don't use) "high temperature" silicone, but I'm not going to get in to that argument again... If you do a search you will find this topic has come up at least once before within the last year.Can I get away with nothing or do I really need something?
Me neither- the bathroom variety has worked fine for me thus far.[I don't use] "high temperature" silicone.