BJ,
Thanks for all the pics, and thoughts - this has been a very constructive, and interesting thread by all involved. It might be good to summarize some of this, and put it into a tech page.
NASA will help us test some of these issues, which is great. We really need to think through the details so we get good data.
First, we need to make sure we use good examples of the various motor configurations, and make sure they're tuned properly. We also need to make sure they're as similar as possible in ways other than what we are testing.
As I see it, we have at least 5 issues to settle:
1. High vs low compression pistons
2. Effects of head shaving
3. Effects of varying cam timing on a shaved head
4. 6R vs 8R head. If we can get a 7R head to look at, we'll see how similar it is to the 6R and 8R versions, but will have to make some assumptions, as testing yet another head becomes impractical.
5. '88 computer vs. earlier models
This is a lot to look into, and we need to do it right.
It would be nice to swap all the head configurations onto one motor, but that may not be practical, and certainly could not be done in one day.
Right now we're looking at gathering the various options, and waiting on some motors to be built, so it will be a while, but we are hoping to gather some good data on what really matters in a Spec motor.
If cam timing turns out to be the big factor, than some sort of correction would be in order - offset key or adjusted cam gear.
If pistons, or the heads turn out to be the big deal, than we may make a competition adjustment. This could be a weight adjustment, allowing a specific "spec" chip that makes up the power deficit, or other approach at balanceing this out.
If the different computers make a big difference, we may restrict that in the rules, or allow a spec chip to equalize this.
Lots to be determined!
