Exhaust pipes don't line up

[RobCL77]

I'm in the final stages of my 1967 CL77 restoration. Yesterday I was putting on a set of rechromed exhaust pipes that I acquired on Ebay but the slotted hole for the exhaust pipe setting bolt didn't line up with the threaded hole in the frame (missing by about 1/4 inch). At first I thought that maybe the bracket location was off so I measured it against my old pipes and it was the same. Now can anyone tell me if the exhaust pipe joints are supposed to be tight to the engine or are they supposed to be sticking out about that same 1/4 inch or so because of the exhaust pipe joint collars. Or is there another reason why the pipes don't line up?
Any responses will be appreciated.
Thanks,
Rob

[gramey7]

Rob,
I experienced the same symptoms. I had to use a screwdriver to pull the pipes back to put in the bolt so mine is preloaded at the back ends of the pipe slots.
George

[piecutter]

Seems to be a common problem. One side of my 67, same problem. Always leave the header flange nuts loose until you get the other end sorted out.
My 64(CB77) left side is almost against the engine case. Cant service the oil filter without taking the pipe off!

[RobCL77]

Thanks George and Piecutter. I finally got a chance to work on my bike again and I got the exhaust bolt in. I didn't realize the pipes had that much flex to them and I didn't want to damage them in any way. That's why this forum is so great - you can't beat experience! Thanks again.
Rob