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Frequently Asked Questions
Who are you?
I am Don Dorfman. I have worked as a Harley tech since 2002 but have been in the automotive field and repaired my own bikes almost all of my working career. I have ported my own heads but never considered making it a business, I just took too long! My designs were not always welcomed with open arms. I remember one instance where an indy refused to put my heads on my bike (97 Fatboy) citing that they would “loose” power. I did a port reduction, cut the barrels and popped the pistons out the holes and milled the heads and did a little chamber work. Well after it was done he declared “this is the fastest stock block EVO I have ridden” and he proceeded to ask if I would do several sets for him, of course the answer nope! Kept the interest and with Dewey’s help I will satisfy the desire to pump up the torque on these motors and satisfy first and foremost the “ham and eggers” and the drag racers, maybe a few of those too, as time allows.
Who is Dewey?
Dewey Jelen owner of Dewey’s Custom sells foot pegs, air cleaner covers and porting heads was another aspect to the business. This business has been transferred to Don Dorfman and the intellectual property, tools and equipment went along with the transfer.
How long have you been in porting heads and what is your background?
I have ported heads since 1972 always for my own use only. I learned on a 2 liter German Ford motor with the help of Larry Ofria (Valley Head Service), and Steve Smith from Van Nuys California. Little 122” motors made 200hp at 8,500 rpm with a factory bottom end and some serious milling to get 12/1 compression. I have owned Harleys since 1981 and modified my own bikes so they would perform or in the case of the shovelhead just to keep it glued together.
What is so great about "Porting by Hand" verses CNC porting?
Either method can be effective. The bottom line is these motors are not high rpm units and the design limits the upper rpm limit. We need to exploit the torque they can produce and have effectively done that with “velocity” ports. These ports give the motor what it wants and needs based on the bore, stroke, and cam choice. Actually this efficient high velocity port goes a few steps better and raises volumetric efficiency by concentrating on emptying the full exhaust charge early in the cycle and optimizing Intake flow when the piston is at maximum draw also early in the intake cycle.
Do you use a Flow Bench?
All Pro Street, and Gila Monster heads are flowed. Street Port packages are not checked
How much power will your heads make on my bike?
Deweyspegs.com has many dynos to look at for comparison. (NOTE: Our dyno page will be up soon) These give a range of what to expect but in all cases the actual may vary. I can't overemphasize the importance of a good pipe, and tune, including timing optimized.
Which porting option is best for my style of riding?
Pumping up torque and widening the curve is the goal. Horsepower comes along for the ride. Fast rev times and midrange torque for passing and roll-on fun are the benefit of this big fat torque curve. The Street Port package offers an economical, and very effective way to increase torque. This package is best suited for mild, bolt in cams. The price on the Street Port package starts at $450.00. The Pro Street package is designed for wide torque bands and higher compression and higher lift cam shaft applications. The price on the Pro Street package starts at $750.00.
How much compression do I need?
Compression is set and discussed based on the intended use of the bike, camshaft used, and the cubic inches of the motor. Dewey’s heads work with a broad range of cams and pipes but some are top performers. I will be happy to help you tailor your combination to your needs.
When are compression releases recommended/required?
If calculated cold cranking compression exceeds 190 pounds, I recommend releases.
When should I use roller rocker arms?
If valve lift exceeds .560 I recommend Rollers. This is not mandatory but will reduce friction and most importantly reduce guide wear due to high side loads.
What thickness head gasket should I use?
Desired squish is .030 - .035 in most cases. The most common way to get there is by zero decking the pistons and using a Cometic .030 head gasket. We adjust the head CCs for the proper compression on all of our head packages.
Do you use my original valves, springs and hardware?
On the Street Port package we use the stock springs. The stock beehives on the late heads are desirable and control the valves well with most camshafts. If heavier springs are needed they are an option on the Street Port package and standard on the Pro Street package. New valves are used on all head packages. The valves and seats are highly modified to enhance volumetric efficiency and velocity.
How do you prepare the valve guides?
On the earlier heads the stock guides are tapered and trimmed. The same heads often need the guide trimmed on top to clear high valve lifts. The new stock 06 and up heads don't require this work. Guides are replaced if required with Rowe replacements.
Do you have an exchange program?
Yes but we do not ship heads without your core inspected first. The core must be damage free and not previously ported or reworked. Careful packaging is essential as the fins break very easily.
How long will HDBD have my heads?
Two to three weeks is normal turn around time. Call or email to verify exact lead times when you are shipping the heads.
What parts are replaced on a port job?
Valves, seals, guides if required. New springs are used on the Pro Street package.
Do you only port Twin Cam heads?
We can also do the Street Port on EVO heads.
Do you offer any type of "Tech Support"?
We try to help the customer design the whole engine package. As the business grows we will be offering engine parts packages as a convenience to our customers.
What kind of warranty do you offer?
We offer a 12 month unlimited mileage no hassle warranty. Top quality products are used throughout that exceeds OEM quality therefore with proper installation and tuning you can expect long trouble free life from your heads.
I've seen cheaper porting services, what makes yours worth the money?
The dynos and the customers speak volumes about the work. They are our best sales force.
What are my payment options?
Check or money order, no cash. We also take Visa and MasterCard via PayPal. If you prefer you can email your credit card information or you can call and give it over the phone.
Where do I ship my heads?
Head Designs By Dewey
1915 111th Ave East
Edgewood, WA 98372
253-691-5893
Should I remove any parts from my heads before shipment?
Do not send rockers, rocker boxes or breather parts.
How should I pack my heads for shipping?
Package all heads carefully and use a large volume of bubble wrap or high-density foam. Be sure the head does not move in the box. The most economical way to ship the heads is in one box. Be sure to adequately separate the heads so there is no contact with each other. Enclose a note with all of the pertinent information including:
- Name and shipping address.
- Email address and phone number where you can be reached.
- Include a note specifying the porting package you would like and the details of your current build (cams, compression, exhaust, carb or EFI).
- Payment (if sending check or money order.)
- Please download and complete the PDF Order Form and return it with the heads you plan to ship.
What method should I use to ship my heads?
UPS, DHL or FedEx all offer excellent service to our address.
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