Upgrade performance of '81 LH

[Brian_D]

I've been reading thru some past posts from Dan Hodges recently and have been toying with the idea of adding a little more punch to my '81 LH - however, since money is an object, it will have to be performed in stages.

Firstly, know that I do not understand 3/4 of Dan's posts on the subject cams and timing. From what was posted and I gleened, with the '81 LH (and a future Viper classic DRAG/CAFE RACER Fairing), I could:
1. use the 78-79 cams
2. 81 heads cut .030
3. 78 advance curve
4. 81 carburetors with 180 pilot air jets, stock pilots, 112.5 mains for stock pipes.

Now for the questions:
1. How would I accomplish #3?
2. If performed in stages, what is the most logical sequence (#4, #1 & #3, and finally #2)?
3. How much will my 6'7", 250lb frame affect low end after the mods (believe I should have stated this to begin with since the mods in question aren't recommended for a full fairing rig and figure my body is almost offering as much wind resistance)

TIA

[TopCatGr58]

Hey Brian,

From my understanding, you would need to swap out the Ignition parts for the 78 timing advance parts, both centrifugal and vacuum, and also get the 78-79 Ignition box/TCI, cause the 81 has the centrifugal advance curve built into it's TCI!

If you really want a bit more punch, save your $$ for while longer, and then while you are tearing down the top end for the cams swap, do a big bore kit, you'll get lots more compression this way without having to shave the heads!

I've got a stock 81SH ignition setup, stock carbs, just 117.5 mains, Indy filters and "OLD" JCW 4-1 pipes, and the little big bore kit! I'll be taking it to the Drag Strip tomorrow morning making a few runs to see how it behaves and will be posting photos and stats about it!! Will let you know what kind of POWER PUNCH this big bore kit gives it over STOCK!?
T.C.

[Dennyz]

"Excuse me, cutting in here". I am very interested in the shaving .030 off the head sections. Where can I find Dan’s information on this?

Thanks

[Brian_D]

Dennyz,

Here is the link where mention is made of shaved heads.