On an otherwise perfectly stock 216:
Short answers:
"Does it really help the motor run cleaner, stronger, better?" Three questions - maybe, yes, yes (but how much cleaner, stronger, better? - read on)!
"My question is it worth the expense?" - Your call
Long answer:
Panic (2 posts above) said it well.
Longer answer:
IF - (A) you pick the correct size smaller carbs, (B) recalibrate these smaller carbs perfectly, (C) modify the intake for the smaller carbs (D) modify the intake (if needed) for heat, and (E) perfectly synchronize these carbs; well, expect 3 to 5 percent improvement. NO MORE!
If you don't do ALL of the above perfectly ........................you won't break even!
And, quoting Jerry (Hot Rod Lincoln) - "Eye candy- - - - -sold by a guy named Barnum!"
If you really want improvement from multiple carburetion only - go with triples (and again re-read the post by Panic). Do everything 4 sentences above perfectly and you might get 15 percent.
The stock Carter W-1 is very difficult to beat on an otherwise stock 216. Jon G. and Dragsix both mentioned the Carter YF, which I agree, IS a good carb; but I prefer the W-1.
Jon.
