Ok so updating this since I still need some much appreciated help. As of now its no longer my friend's bike....It's mine....I bought it! Ok so on with the updates:
I have decided to go with the pod filter route since it is so much easier to access everything. I installed the cleaned carbs, rebuilt and cleaned the petcock, replaced the fuel line, and gave her a try. She starts up (at first needed some help with starter fluid) but only on full choke. As soon as I take it off it dies. Also, when I give it throttle the sliding valve that is part of the Cv boot shutters. This makes me think I have a vacuum leak somewhere. I ordered the O-rings for the intake manifold and I'm praying this will solve my problem. What I do know now from replacing the parts listed above is that I'm getting sufficient gas to the float bowl. I did not soak the carbs or pull them apart but I gave them a damn thorough cleaning with the spray and air compressor. I removed all the jets and screws and they were all cleaned well. So vacuum leak? Ideas?
Jebus,
You ask for help and then ignore those who freely offer their knowledge based upon their own accumulated experience.
1. You need to replace the O rings in the carbs!!!!
2. You need to completely clean the carbs per the instructions
3. You need new O rings between the intakes and the head
Ditch the pods until you have it running correctly as they will screw up the airflow. You'll have to rejet for the pods.
Take some time and read through BassCliffs website. It's mandatory and a wealth of knowledge that you need to refer to.
Why seek advice and then ignore it???