Which LF motor is best and will fit in a 78?

[Ryan Burman]

So I'm new to this but since I'm bent on have a 440 LF motor in my 78 LF 440 I just picked up currently it looks to have a cyclone engine in it. My question is what year is the best to have that will fit in the 78? I know the 76-78 and the 80-83? are different in looks and frames but I wasn't sure if there were progressive improvements to the motors every year or not. I'm looking for maximum performance value and don't mind minor modifications. I plan on when I can afford it picking up some of the AAEN pipes, minor internal mods, and in general applying as many old school hop up ideas as I can myself. Thanks for any info.

[WinnipegStPaul9]

HI Ryan, putting a 440 liquid cooled Kawasaki from an 80-84 Liquifire would take much more than an "minor modification". You should not have any trouble finding a 440 Kioritz from a 76-78 and most likely it will be reasonably priced. That said from your pictures you'll also need a radiator, radiator support, hoses, and I can't see it but if you don't have a heat exchanger you'll need that too. All these items are relatively easy to find in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan and are likely not expensive. That's my suggestion, put a Kioritz back in and enjoy what I think is one of John Deere's best sleds.

DA

[Ryan Burman]

I see I didn't know they had an entirely different motor between the two. I pretty much plan on finding a complete parts sled possibly in rougher shape than this one because personally all things considered besides the motor being wrong mines not bad overall. Thanks for the info learned something!

[lwb140]

78 lfs are terrific sleds , 80 -84 Kawi motors mount differently . As DA says , correct parts will be easy to find and will make for a great sled , sounds like a fun project ! Wade

[Norton]

Ryan,
A friend bought a non running but with spark, 1977 440 Liquifire for me at Princeton MN show (I needed a 440cc motor). $100.00 plus some shipping expense. Took him 2 years to run across the 440 for me. 340's are easier to come by, but 10 mph slower.

I have found when you ride with the Amber's, one needs the extra poop. (-:

keith

[WinnipegStPaul9]

Ryan,
A friend bought a non running but with spark, 1977 440 Liquifire for me at Princeton MN show (I needed a 440cc motor). $100.00 plus some shipping expense. Took him 2 years to run across the 440 for me. 340's are easier to come by, but 10 mph slower.

I have found when you ride with the Amber's, one needs the extra poop. (-:

keith