The snorkle and confines of the airbox, are more restricted than the maximum amount of air that the carb can handle. Some things you just have to take on faith. Millions of people (including myself) have had the exact same experience!

 

Its all about velocity and being lean. The less restricted opening is not allowing the air to enter with enough speed. Volume is nothing without velocity. It seen it personally while experimenting on the chassis dyno.

 

So that's why it runs better with the lid on? Because the air coming through the openings that lead from outside air to the box is flowing fast and when I open the lid, even though there's more air, it's moving slower so I lose power?

 

Yes exactly.

 

Ok, I get it now. What if I make the hole in the carb a little smaller? Will it flow faster and have more power? Or is it a thing where smaller is better because the velocity is faster but too small and you cross the line where you start to lose volume? So it's a trade off between volume & velocity?

 

Big is good only if you need it. You can make the carb opening as big a a coffee can and add the appropriate fuel, but make no power. You need to find the spot where volume and velocity intersect to determine the perfect size for your combo.

 

OK. Now I'm educated. Thanks sprayedgt.

 

No problem man.