I took off all six nuts/bolts that mount the exhuast to the engine. The brakets on the outside came off/down the pipe without a problem. I can't get the pipes away from the engine. Could it just be stuck? I've also removed the bolt that holds the pipe to the underside of the bike. I grab both sides and wiggle -- it has a slight play but won't come away. My temper has gotten me into this situation, and I'd rather not break something else

Its a 98 if that gives you any idea of how hot/old the fittings could have gotten.

 

dont quote me, as i have been known to be wrong once before, but i just installed the pipes on my 98, and i noticed that the pipes hung on inside the exhaust ports. this held the pipes up, which was nice, as it allowed me to connect the bolt to the frame under the engine. as for the parts you removed, the six nuts, one bolt to the frame under the engine, and the hanger on the can, you got it all. the only thing i could see, and i would never have suggested it if it just didnt happen to me, is that the pipes could be catching in the exhaust port.
BTW, i am using the original header.

 

Hmm - that might explain the reason they don't fall right off -- if there is a lip that they get caught on. I sprayed some PB blaster, might fidgit with it tomorrow morning.