SBoxer,
I wouldn't worry too much about the cooling fins.
I do punch out the centrifical spring clips but I haven't seen a noticable difference in power from the motor with or without the cooling fins...

I think it's 90% cosmetic.

If you can, try dropping it on a prop-balancer, most of mine are stock (off balance) but I've heard you can smooth them up a bit by balancing the flywheel.
Now...how you would go about balancing...I have no idea...but if ya'll have a good way to do it let me know.

Good Luck!

CrazyHerb