Float height specs for 77 GS 550 VM Carb?

[rthor]

1977 GS 550E
Stock VM carbs
Stock airbox
Stock exhaust

In the Clymers manual, the specs call for a 26mm float height. Is this measurement to be taken with or without the carb gasket in place? Also, I've read in some other posts that 26 is too high and that 24mm is the correct height. Can someone clear this up for me?

[49er]

Your model should have VM22SS carbs as stock.
My 850 has VM26SS carbs. Clymer quotes 23-25mm from the bowl sealing surface to the bottom of the float, when it is lightly seating on the inlet needle. If you measure from the gasket, you reduce the setting by 1mm.
Cheers
Ian

[KEITH KRAUSE]

I don't have 550 factory info but there's a "carb spec" thread around here that may. The "other" manuals frequently have incorrect info. Search.
I believe about .94" is very close to correct.
Always measure with the gasket removed. If you have weak float valve springs, replace them or your adjustments will not be what you intend.

[rthor]

thanks.
I've learned so much through reading previous threads. I might as well have taken an entire course in carbureator cleaning.
You guys provide amazing support to the GS community.

[Steve]

Would it be safe to assume that the same measurements would apply to a '79 550?
I will be working on a friend's bike this weekend and he does not have a book yet.


.

[KEITH KRAUSE]

I don't think there would be any difference between '77 and '79 VM22 float levels. You can always make a new topic asking for that specific info and someone (hopefully with a factory manual) will verify it.