Quote:
Originally Posted by BillyRok
...SNIP....anybody have other proven solutions or reasonable ideas?
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Billy,
In my opinion, Marty's suggestion of the dent puller is the best idea. BUT, you need to find someone that can weld using Stainless Steel Wire or TIG
PROPERLY. The typical welder, very proficient with a traditional carbon steel stick or MIG weld, is not necessarily familiar with or use to working with SS & Aluminum welds.
Some may not even have the proper shielding gases required for other metals.
I'm not sure if you saw the mod made to the Harley muffs on my DUCK at XSSE '15? I was able to cut the very nice chrome mufflers completely apart, remove several inches, and SS weld them back together with SS mig wire (and Tri-Mix Gas Shielding).
There is a TINY bit of discoloration (slight yellowing) of the chrome due to heat on the margin between the SS welds and the chrome.
Most people have to be shown the discoloration to see it but it is visible in the photo above.
However, the mufflers I modified were absolutely
perfect metal of very high quality (OEM H.D.). They had never been used and didn't have ANY corrosion, dirt, carbon, etc. on them inside or outside. I SUSPECT you could get
comparable results if the metal is in REALLY nice condition and has been thoroughly cleaned. Considering where the dent is.... unlikely anyone would see a little discoloration, certainly not as visible as that dent!
I am a "pretty good" welder but I have had a heck of a time just repairing some of my head pipes.
But, my best set of head pipes does not look anywhere near as nice & pristine as the one you have there! If those pipes were mine.... I'd drill a couple holes, pull the dent and fill the holes and any remaining indentation with SS wire.
Find a
really good welder!
Sincerely,
KURT