78 KZ1000 sooty plugs, popping exhaust

Would address electrical issues.

And inspect pointed tips of pilot adjustment screws.

If problem persists, would install new #20 pilot jets (regardless of looks), because there're inexpensive, and metering is critical to pilot circuit. And it's easy for me to spend your money.

Meanwhile, kick back with your favorite beverage and enjoy a Happy Father's Day!

Your compression is fine. Would address the electrical issues. I would TEST the battery to ensure there are no dead or part dead cells using a hydrometer or get the battery load tested by a bike shop. If the battery tests good, then start looking at the charging system; the stator and the reg/rec and the wiring for those components. It wouldn't hurt to swap pilot jets as aftermarket pilot jets have been known to work less than optimally at times... I have seen some aftermarket pilot jets not produce a fine spray but they will produce a thick splatter... even new.

Well, I pulled the top end appart, that way I know everything is in good working order. The ring gap is .026-.028 on all the rings, so I'm putting new rings in it. Plus I'm just cleaning everything up, you wouldn't believe the amount of carbon on the the valves, in the ports and in the combustion chambers. Plus I found the front timin chain guide was broken in half and just flopping around, so that was the noise I was hearing. So once I get it back together I'll post the results