You don't need a spacer plate. You can have your stock head modified. I went from stock to a HJR 4mil so I can't comment on the difference between it and only stock stroke ported cylinders. I was told the 4mil would give me a much broader powerband over just ported cylinder. I still use my stock carbs and 3 HD clutch springs. Give Kevin @ HJR a call and he can put you on the right path.