I've been reading about mods for my 87 lt80, but I need opinions. Is it best to cut down the rear clutch shoes to 180 grams for riding in sand and hills? What is the proper procedure to cut them down? Also I have read that you can increase power by using 2 base gaskets to change port timing. Is this true and worth it? I am planning on milling the head 30 thousanths when I rebuild it, or should I go 20thou? I have also heard that you should use a 90 main jet instead of the 92.5. Would this be ok with the milled head at 2000ft above sea level and temps from 55-100? Is the 12-26 gearing about the best for my mods? I am also running a uni filter. Is there any power increase from cleaning up the reed cage (porting)? Your opinions are greatly appreciated! Preston

 

One more thing, what happens if you do not put the o ring in under the main jet? I think they call it the main jet packing.

 

Yes, 180 grams on the rear shoes. A great mod for hills/dunes.
Get the clutch pack off (big nut is left handed thread).Cut the shoes off about 1/2" from the pad and drill the back side to the exact weight.
A 90 main is fine as they are jetted way fat stock.
Extra base gasket: it'll raise the cylinder .018. I doubt you'll notice much.
.030 off the head.
Negative on the reed cage. A stock motor only pulls in so much air so modding it won't mean much if anything.
Gearing: I'd think for the dunes, the 12/26 would work good. Altho a 13 may be what your looking for. AND #40 chain (from your local tractor supply or MSCDirect.com) will fit a 13/26 perfect.
You MAY want to remove 1 or 2 rollers in the front clutch.
Oring/jet...I'm thinking it needs to be in there but not 100% positive.
Hope that helps.

 

Thank you so much for your help! Do you know whether 18x9.5-8 tires would fit good on the stock rims? Thanks again, Preston

 

I'm sure it has been done but the stock wheel is a lil skinny for em.