Gasket material for intake boots?

Trying to get this old KZ550 running nice "on the cheap" and didn't want to take the plunge on new intake boots if I don't have to do it. I suspect an air leak and want to know if there's a recommended gasket sealer of the permatex variety which folks have had luck with. I just got it running and it runs a little hot and surges when I ride it.

I'm also up for making gaskets from the rubber based gasket material but really just wanted to see what's worked for folks. Maybe I'm being pennywise and pound foolish, but those things are over $80 guys! Probably should also look at some new airbox boots too since they could be letting some air in. I've tried using zip ties instead of the springs and that's helped some but I suspect I might have to bite the bullet.

i would also like to hear information on this. My intake boots are in great shape, but i can sometimes see it puff before it warms up between the boots and the head.

bite the bullet pal it will save you pulling out your hair later spray some brake clean or carb cleaner around the boots when its hot to double check if they are leaking the rpms will change

I think on a forum or two someone mentioned using the "Plastic Dip" to line the inside of the boots/ducting.

It's the stuff tools can be dipped into improving grip.
I believe the person painted it on thin using a brush.

Yes...buy new ones!
That is such a vital part of the whole operation of the engine,and diagnosing carb problems.
Sure,they may be able to be temporarily repaired,but when you least expect it...expect it.
And you know,it WILL be miles from home.:blush:

Thanks for the input guys. Looks like I'll be putting an order into Z1 here soon. They have the carb holders but they're out of stock on the boots that come out the airbox apparently.

Just another yes vote, timebomb and sandy are right. There are lower cost alternatives but the bike may never be right. Even if you find a cheap used set you will run the risk of issues because like Forest Gump said, you never know what your gonna get.

Is $80 the Kawi price? I just picked up a new set of 4 for my 1000 for $55 they are exactly the same except NEW and SOFT! check out Fleabay.

put a thin bead of clear silicone between the boots and the head when you install them

PLUMMEN wrote:

put a thin bead of clear silicone between the boots and the head when you install them

That's what I did. Use the hi-temp black silicone rubber RTV stuff.

I don't like silicon, but Yamabond #4 works great. Honda and Kawasaki has the same general stuff in their brand too. Be aware you'll be very lucky if the screws are not seized in the head so be patient in removal or you'll twist the head right off the screw.

I suggest using Kroil on the screws for a couple days before trying to remove them. I did this on my '77 KZ650 and even though the screws had never before been removed (the bike was 29 years old at the time) the screws came out with no problem. Ed