Setting Float Height on Smoothbores

I rode the bike this evening for the first time since going over the carbs - again. It seemed to run much better with the new float level! I sure hope that was the problem.

Here's the new issue:

I had noticed this before and saw it again today - the carb overflow tubes are wet on the ends and even drip occasionally. The carbs are brand new, so I don't get it?? There isn't any reason to think that the new needle/seats need to break in, right? I've never heard of that. Any thoughts??

79MKII wrote:

...Here's the new issue: I had noticed this before and saw it again today - the carb overflow tubes are wet on the ends and even drip occasionally. The carbs are brand new, so I don't get it?? There isn't any reason to think that the new needle/seats need to break in, right? I've never heard of that. Any thoughts??

Regarding the clear tube test with 17mm hex head drain plug ---
Could use a spare 17mm hex plug (or get one from Z1E) and drill a hole through its centerline to fit a plastic or metal nipple for the clear tube to attach. Or carefully size the hole for a snug fit by just pressing the clear tube into place without needing a nipple. This drill-and-add-nipple method may also be used on carbs having the smaller side located drain screw.

I prefer the rubber grommet as being quicker and equally satisfactory for the larger bottom-located drain holes, and for the smaller side-located drain holes just "threading" the soft plastic tubing into the hole, when the official tool isn't available.

Click here >> for the 17mm hex head drain nut available at Z1E

Regarding fuel from the carb overflow tubes---
With a properly functioning petcock, and either a manual style turned OFF or a vacuum style in RUN or RES position, there should be no wetness or fuel drizzel at end of floatbowl overflow tubes.

However, such wetness or occasional drizzel isn't unusual where bike is parked leaving manual petcock in ON or RES position or leaving vacuum petcock in PRI position.

It requires a near perfect float valve to stop fuel when bike is parked with petcock allowing fuel flow.

Am presuming an in-line fuel filter was fitted prior to any fuel whatever being allowed into the carbs.

Good Luck!

Well, I got another good ride in again this evening and the bike ran perfectly. I can't believe how much of a difference the float level seems to have made. The plugs look great and it runs really well. It was a lot of messing around to get those new carbs dialed in, but I think (hope) I'm finally there. The overflow tubes are dry now too. I'd like to get the actual fuel level checked one of these days but it seems pretty good for now.

Here's the latest problem - everytime I twist the throttle quickly, the back wheel spins. I have a 180 tire on the rear and it still breaks loose without the clutch. Well, I guess I can live with that.

don't twist the throttle quickly sneak up on it! :woohoo: it's fun isnt.

im glad i found this

keithnra wrote:

im glad i found this

I always try to update the post for others that might be searching in the future. Over the years I've found a lot of posts that had no ending - it's hard to say what the final solution was in that case.

Add your findings too if you adjust your floats. Good luck!