The prob with gear drive cams is, when the fly wheels shift out of alignment (if they're not welded) things break!

 

I did cams first. Did the SE upgrade to hydraulic tensioners, Andrews cams, adjustable Andrews pushrods, etc. With tools from Heartland, I was in for less than $1000. Did the BB last year. Heads this winter. I was quoted $1800 at my local dealer for the cam job. FWIW.

 

I think if you're not willing to do both, and this is one of the last mods you're planning on, I'd just run it the way it is until you sell it. Let the next guy decide...

As for cams vs. big bore kit, upgrade the cam chest! Every time.

 

Do the cam swap and shop around. No need to go gear drive. The chain will be polished now therefore it will not eat through
the new tensioner.

 

I just did the tensioner shoes at 57k miles and they were completely worn!!. however the chains are polished silky smooth on the contact area and im looking forward to monitoring the wear. I just pull the cover every 20kmiles!.to the "OP" I am still trying to get the whole "gear drive hype" gear drives are not used for longevity! they are used to gain horsepower over your competition. if you are shaving tenths on your quarter mile times than a $2000 investment is cheap speed, if you are simply riding your bike as most of us do than save your cash and learn to do wheelie's. much "cooler", much cheaper.

 

Really great input here! I am thinking at this point that the cams/oil pump upgrade seem the best route for OOMPH and longevity sake. Not looking to get crazy gains and I do like the idea of upgrading my oil system...

 

Where do you come up $2000 for gear drive??? S&S gear drive costs $480.

 

I agree, and it being a TC88, the crank will be close to no run out. A oil pump would be nice.

 

you walk into a dealer and ask for performance work there is a switch that trips and your wallet will dump whatever it contains.

 

stick with chain driven cams in the grind of your choice, you will get the "lopey idle", the change in torque/power will make you smile and you should be able to get it all $700. cams, inner/outer cam bearings installed and new tensioner shoes or assemblies which ever the dealer favors. the adjustable pushrods are not necessary for any other reason other than avoiding the replacement of rocker cover gaskets. jeez I am so opinionated.