bike not running well...out of ideas! (850gl)

[scout127]

I didn't soak them. I sprayed and used high pressure air. I did however replace the o-rings in between the carbs (they were broken).

I believe the petcock is working fine. When on prime I get a solid fuel flow. I've tried running the bike on prime, but there is no change. When the floats are set to the height suggested in the manual, I sometimes get fuel overflow when on prime. Is this normal or should I set the floats to get rid of the overflow regardless of what the manual says?

[scout127]

update on '83 GS850GL

Okay, I'm back. I checked the valve clearances, and they seem fine. They range from .03 to .08. I can't see replacing the shims. Also, my airboots seem fine. They are soft and pliable. Is it really worth replacing them? If not, what is my next step? another carb teardown?

[almarconi]

I would tear the carbs apart and soak them overnight in carb cleaning solution. The problem you are describing sounds like a clogged pilot/choke circuit. Once the carbs are cleaned and reassembled, use an inline fuel filter on your gas line to keep the carbs clean. Make sure to check the float height during reassembly . It is also a good idea to check the gas level in the bowls once you get them installed. You will need to vacuum sync the carbs once you get it running. Bike will run like crap until you get this done.