You state "Conductor must be rated at least for 81 A. That will require #3 AWG (copper), minimum."
Looking in the 2011 Code Book, Article 310, Table 310.15(B)(16) I see that a #4 at 75C is good for 85A; therefore, replacing the #4 with #3 would not be required, no?
Also, is it 125% of FLA...