hello
yes, there is a difference between the 400 and the 501/600 head. the 400 head is 31/27 and the 501/600 head is 35/30. the 35/30 head will be very nice on the 400! it is a straight fit.
the rocker covers are slightly different so a 1989-1995 head and rocker cover should stay together and 1996-2000 stay together.
the next problem is that the smaller valve heads have their pairs of valves closer together on the inlet side so you have different rocker arms between the 400 and the 501/600.
so you must look at the rocker arms changing as well! it is all possible though!
Not sure what your question about decompression is though? if it was me, I would always make the auto decompressor work and throw the manual and kickstart away.
Taffy