Carb linkage and velocity stack questions, Need opinions on CB performance recommendations Options

[Van]

I ordered a dual carb linkage kit and velocity stacks from CB performance for my 44 IDFs... 2 things surprised me - I called them, and was told, "don't worry about it - that's as good as you'll get." I'd like some other opinions...

#1: the air cleaner bases (there's a left and a right) have the same "offset" for the linkage bar - meaning the bar will be at an angle to the engine when it's installed. They said, "We don't have anything for the type 4 offset - don't worry, you'll be fine." I've seen pictures from searches, and it looks like many people have setups with a straight bar - what are they using?

#2: the velocity stacks have a bore which is a bit bigger than the top of the carburetor - like maybe 3/8" larger in diameter. (Actually, the air cleaner base plate has the same large bore, too.) Anyhow, it seems to me, that if one has that large a step transitioning from the velocity stack to the carb throat, any gain from the velocity stack will be eliminated from the turbulence. CB's response, "Don't worry - you'll never feel the difference."

Does anyone have any guidance for me? Should I try to get velocity stacks the right size? Should I modify the air cleaner base plates to make the bar perpendicular to the crankshaft?

[jmill]

With no offset it won't be right. With the crossbar at an angle the distance the drop links travel will be different from side to side. One arm moves closer to the carb body while the other moves farther away.

As far as the velocity stacks go I bet they gave you 48 IDF stacks. The whole idea of the stack is to smooth out flow to increase its velocity. The turbulence at the step doesn't help. I don't know if the step will eliminate all the gain. I suspect it will eliminate some. I, personally, would want a smooth transition.

This looks like the hot ticket: http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=99851