1978 GS550 'Slide' Carbs

[Guest]

My 1978 GS550 has a 4into1 and pod filters.

It starts well, idles well and is responsive with plenty of power below 5500RPM.

As soon as it gets above 5500-6000rpm the engine develops no more power.

So I'm going to take the carbies off and do a thorough clean and rebuild.

They are the first 'slide' type carbies, not the CV diaphragm type.

Will the Dynojet kit be suitable (https://cart.dynojet.com/p-534-jet-k...50-katana.aspx) or is this only applicable for CV carbies?

Any advic or direction will be most appreciated.

[hampshirehog]

That kit is for the CV carbs and won't work on your bike. They don't make a kit for your bike. There are loads of threads on here for setting up carbs for 550s - you won't need a kit just different mains plus lower the clip on the needles and tweak your air screws.

[HKGTS]

That kit is for the CV carbs and won't work on your bike. They don't make a kit for your bike. There are loads of threads on here for setting up carbs for 550s - you won't need a kit just different mains plus lower the clip on the needles and tweak your air screws.

Thanks for the reply.

I've searched pretty hard on the forums but advice is varied and not always on the earlier models.

Would you be able to recommend a main jet starting point?

[hampshirehog]

I would start with 100 mains - that'll get you in the ball park. You'll end up somewhere in the low 100s I suspect, but that does depend on your pods. Make sure your valve clearances are fine and that your intake boots are in good nick with no leaks as well, otherwise you'll be chasing your tail trying to tune it in. Lift the needles one notch - I've done a good few of these and it's always one notch.

[HKGTS]

Brilliant thanks for the quality advice.

I'll post an update with how I get on.