Thinking my compression is too high, so maybe I should go with a compression release setup or Easy Start cams? Don't really want to sink a bunch more money into this bike. I do believe the cams would be cheaper.
Damn starter, jackshaft and ring-gear had to be replaced.

98CI
10:1
Andrews 37G
RB Racing Black hole exhaust
no headwork
carbureted

Wondering if there is a comparable Easy Start cam, similar to the 37G; wouldn't mind getting a bit more low-end torque if I do decide to change cams.

 

Pretty cheap to have heads drilled and tapped for manual releases but ya need to pull the heads. Of course swapping cams involves some labor too. Have ya done a compression test? What is the reading?

 

No, that is something I have not done yet.

 

Lot of post regarding compression problems at hot starts .... If you only have a mild bolt in cam installed , (no other major mods), and battery and starter are still in good condition, try this at hot starts, (and also at first start up ),,,,, Sitting on bike ,, bike in first gear ,,, push back and forth two or three times, then start her up .... The pistons will moved from the stopped position releasing some compression and should help with hot start problems .... Similar , but not the same ,,When in neutral before engaging first gear after start up, pull clutch three or four times ,,, The bad clunk you may have just might disappear ......

 

I like ACR's (automatic compression release). Run them off a relay under the seat and forget about it. As said, you have to send the heads off to be done, but you'll never worry about high compression start again. I dont like the manuals cuz I hate leaning over to press'em while I'm starting.
The easy start cams do look promising, though.

 

Put a set of S&S 510 EZ starts in. They will run almost exactly the same as your Andrews.
Easier than removing the heads and you will never have to deal with ACR's sticking or going bad.

 

If ya thinking arc, may be cheaper/easier to swap on some 103 heads. S&S makes electronic ones too... but again l'd check the ccp before jumping in.

 

Easy Start Cams with adjustable pushrods is not too difficult a task and no messing with the top end.

 

I'm looking at the S&S 551 EZ start cams for my 96" 2007 SG. Heard lot's of positive things about them.

 

I put the 551ez cams in my 2010 ultra when I did my 103 upgrade from the stock 96, great cams through the rpm range and it starts better than when it was a 96. Opened the intake removed cat added v&h pipes then topped it off with a FP3. Now it runs right