More help with the 81 GS550

[khardrunner14]

I did everything you mentioned. The only question I have concerns measuring the float heights. I have significant (3-4mm) of play in my float between when it hits the tab and when it hits the needle. Which side of that play do I measure from? If I measure with the float hitting the needle I get one measurement and if I measure with the float hitting the tab I ge another measurement.

Here is another way to look at it. If I have the carbs right side up, the float touches the tab due to gravity and does not touch the needle. I get a large measurement to the gasket then. If the carbs are upside down (easier to access the floats since they are on top), The float rests on the needle and I get a smaller measurement to the gasket. Which do I use?

Also, where on the float do I measure to?

Finally, I found 2 of my air jets (as labled in the carb cleanup series) were not all the way screwed in. They are the jets on the air box side of the carb on the left of the intake. The cylinders were 1 and 2. How much of an effect would this have? Are they supposed to be all the way in?

[chef1366]

Yes, they need to be seated.

[khardrunner14]

Any help with the measuring for the float height??

[Otto]

If you have petcok problems, what about trying to ride in the pri position.
Regards
Otto

[khardrunner14]

That is how I figured out that my bike had no top end...I was in "prime" and that i the only way the bike stays running right now. I rode it on the highway and it had nothing...I liken the acceleration to my 98 saturn! It topped out around 65-70 at WOT. My brother's 78 gs400 with 113000 miles on it makes my 81 gs550 with 50k on it look like it's standing still! All this was in the "prime" postition.

[arveejay]

[arveejay]

This is also about the angle it will be sitting when properly adjusted. Are the pins in the float needles moving freely?

[Nerobro]

You should set the float height with the carbs standing on end. Gravity can compress those springs to varying degrees and actually cause different fluid levels in each carb.

I still say it's the petcock.

[khardrunner14]

Thanks for the pic! I'm going to remeasure probably tonight. I talked with my brother and finally figured out how the needle system works...sorry I'm still a newb when it comes to these carbs. I think I have some ideas now how to adjust the floats properly.

The new petcock will be here today or tomorrow...hopefully. I won't have time to get to riding the bike until Saturday. Hopefully the weather cooperates!

You guys are great. Thanks again!