I just sold my 2004 Lightning (mistake) and purchased a 2003 150 HD model. I had hoped to change the pulley and get back to Lightning HP only to be told the HD model is not the same engine as the Lightning. I was told the HD does not have good pistons rods or crank like the Lightning.
Is it true?

 

They are the same engines.

Slightly different stock tuning and a different pulley are the basic differences and why they produce a tad less HP.

Stewart