the front suspension changes things. not so much because of the shocks, but it changes the front angle of the bike. the boonies do not handle well. so some subtle changes (like front springer shock and less square front tire) helps a lot. Handlebars helped too. the torque converter is a no brainer though. you don't need the jackshaft either. just get one of those $65 series30 kits with the TC backing plate, and run the chain from the TC rear unit to the tire. that would be the easiest and give a nice performance boost.