Lowering the cylinder does not affect the stroke. It raises the compression, and decreases the exhaust and transfer port timing and increases the intake timing. You can regain the lost exhaust and transfer timing, and/or increase it by grinding on the top of the ports. You must always chamfer the port edges afterward!

We haven't had any plating peeling problems. You can't just randomly lower the cylinder without checking the piston to head clearance. It should be .015" to .020", and ideally you should take out any squish band in the head area as well so you can lower the cylinder more. These engines definitely benefit from increased compression whether they are run on gasoline or Gas/Glow.

I have lowered cylinders anywhere from .020 to .080" depending on the application, but once again, you can't just whack some off, or leave a gasket out without checking clearances.

If you are not experienced in engine modification, be prepared to lose an engine or two in the learning process unless you're lucky, but it's all good fun!!

AV8TOR