Milling Spree Head

[Brivander]

So this has been covered 100 times, let’s go one more. I plan on milling the head tomorrow on one of my sprees. Seems like the general consensus is .020” is a good place to start.

I have two sprees and the one I’m working on has an, 86’ cylinder, 85’ head and domed piston (Taz), is taking off .020 still ok with the 85' head? Should I go more? I also have an 86’ head as well if there is a better plan.

I’ll measure, but just wanted some input.

[noiseguy]

You want around 0.020" of running clearance, cold. Generally Honda built engines so that if you left out the head gasket (which is 0.20") you'll still have 0.20" running clearance... so with most combinations you'll be safe removing that amount. Direct measurements are always preferred to bench engineering. As for removing more than that, you're basically going below the 0.20" guidance... you can ready up on other's experience with minimum thresholds but most accounts I've read, going below 0.15" cold clearance risks piston slap.

[Brivander]

Ok, just wanted to confirm. I will be checking clearances as well, but just wanted to get some feedback. Looks like I will probably take .020 off both heads for now as long as the clearances check out ok this evening.

[Brivander]

I did finally notice your link to air filters and plugs, I'm doing my part

[Brivander]

Here goes nothing!

https://youtu.be/lvqqzcCmF2I

[eclark5483]

Sounds like you are making a nice little ripper. Good luck with the project.

[Brivander]

It will be interesting to see how this one runs with the 13 T instead of the speed pulley, SB50 reeds and intake came today, guess we will see how good my tapping skills are to plumb it for oil.

[Brivander]

I’m gonna pin that speedo on flat ground one way or the other

Even if I have to drill out an “intake hole” in the intake side of the piston and up-jet. That’s an OLD one...

[eclark5483]

Honestly, the 13T gear with no speed pulley or higher gears is probably the better choice. Sure the higher top speed is nice and the loss of low end isn't as horrible as some try to make it out to be, but it does kind of affect the overall riding experience when going from stop sign to stop sign. I prefer the 12T gear myself, but then, I'm a big guy, I need all the bottom end help I can get on a little Spree. But I do find a nice 35-40mph+ cruise on the outskirts of town on my high geared Spree enjoyable from time to time when I'm not doing 80 on my Indian (Scout) down the highway. Kind of a refreshing, calming, change of pace. But for quick trips to the store, gimme the 12T any day. That's why it's nice to own a couple Sprees that are geared different. You just ride the one you're in the mood for.

[Brivander]

I agree 100%, the speed pulley is not good for a guy my size, so most likely I’ll end up with one of each, to be honest, I’m betting I end up in the 37’ish range with the work I’m doing and the 13T, MLM, piston, reeds, intake, milling etc., and be more tolerable off the line. Keep in mind the wife and daughter will be riding these, my big * will be on a variated scooter, Elite or Jog.

[eclark5483]

What the milling and porting will give you, is a more robust bike that comes up to full speed quicker, you'll pick up 2 maybe 3 mph if your lucky TBH. But I believe the speed in-which it does this will probably be more worth the effort than what the top speed is. Main thing is make sure it has a clean, unworn belt and have that clutch repadded if it needs it (change the springs while your at it), and you should get the most out of the bike.

[Brivander]

That's exactly what I am looking for more overall pull to speed, if I get 2-3mph top speed with the milling and the SB50 reeds that would be beyond expectations. That would pull me into the low 40's on level ground on the bike with the speed pulley. When I swap I am changing the springs and have a brand new belt ready to go on. I will inspect the clutch pads at this time, but they only have 1400 miles on them.....they are not getting any younger though.....

This could work awesome on the bike with the 13T gear.....time will tell. I'm pretty excited to get this far in about a week.

[Meatball]

I have a freshly padded clutch from a Mini Melody if you so desire. It has the same reverse rotation as Spree does. Let me know if youre in the market.

[Brivander]

Not familiar, those were early 80’s right? Fill me in.

[Meatball]

Early 80’s...overseas only.