rjd,

Here is my experience. I replaced the bearings, header, and pipe all in one shot. My buggy is NOTICEABLY FASTER! MUCH FASTER!!!! I don't know how much the tuned pipe helped, but everyone else says it helps. I think the biggest improvement is definitely with the bearings though.....

Yes, alloy clutch shoes WILL wear away the clutch bell. I have been running my alloy shoes about 4 months and there is noticeable wear on the clutch bell. I probably have about 2-4 months left on the bell. How long it will last depends on how much and how hard you drive. I run about 2-3 hours per week. Regardless of whether you run alloy or nylon shoes, you will be replaceing either the shoes or the bell eventually. So just keep a spare on hand. I got my extra bell waiting. I like the alloy shoes cuz it makes the buggy explode off the line...... Hope that helps.......