Breaking News:

I went home for *lunch* and worked on my Black Beauty. I removed the manifold, checked the new over-sized *O* rings and wiped the head clean. I re-installed the manifold very carefully. Finger-tightened the bolts, then 1/2 turned each one until tight and gave a slight 1/4 turn more.

Took her out and short-rided her. Still had vibration even though lower speeds and some RPMs were smooth as I would like. Came back and sprayed carb cleaner onto the flanges to find still leaking. Also sprayed the flange/pipe joint where black rubber was cracking and heard RPMs drop. I think this one has bitten the dust.

I emailed about a Nemesis manifold = $150 + shipping. Only $15 more than new *hand-ported* stock manifold from Phat. DK also said that if I buy the Nemesis coils ($130), I would save about $7 shipping. I'll go for both as long as I can fit my stock carb on the Nemesis.

I just hope there is no other damage or issues once I install the new manifold.

Thanks for bearing up with me, but it's good to at least air my *saga* with yuse guys...

Rayjay

BTW -- Ordered floorboard extenders from Billjr so I must be feeling better about my perceived progress. I'm about 17 1/2" taller than Musky and I need all the room I can get.