My intake is S & S, heads are stock, where the intake connects to the heads, the id of the intake is approx 1/16 - 3/32 larger than the opening in the head. Whats your opinion, how much will this affect performance? Would you get it machined to match?

 

rather than alter the heads ( opening the holes will reduce velocity of the air/fuel into the motor).

perhaps a better matched intake.

I have a Bartels on my '88 I don't think they are available, but you could call Bartel's H-D in Marina Del Rey.

Ramjett is also another good one ( I have one in a box somewhere) and should be kinda available- like the S&S they come in different sizes to match with various carb/head combos.

or find someone who can close up the s&s some. remember than the finished inside surface should be rough and not polished- the rough surface will enhance velocity

mike

 

It would be cheaper to buy a stock manifold than pay to get yours modified! Try Ebay?

 

It is perfectly acceptable to match the heads to the manifold. Just blend it in about 1/2-3/4" into the head. This will reduce turbulance and actually increacse velocity for two reasons. First you have reduced the turbulence caused by the "step" in the intake. Secondly by blending from the larger intake to the smaller port you narrow the crosssection which will help keep the velocity up. Hope this helps

 

I have s&s intake and stock heads seals up no ptoblems