Needle adjustment questions

There was a thread that said it wouldn't run right without them
Steve

I'd put the plug back in. They are in there for a reason.

Regarding the needles, sometimes you can put washers under the clips to lift them a little. if those carbs have springs under the needle though the needle height is controlled by the spacer on top of the needle.

It sounds like you have not found a jetting formula for running pods on those CV carbs. If you can find one, that will eliminate a lot of trial and error, (like months of trial and error).

If this bike is new to you, and hasn't run properly yet, you can eliminate a lot of variables by going with the stock jetting and airbox first (as Ed was getting at). Then when it's running right, you can start on the long jetting process (very long, unless you can get info from someone who has already done it).

You might try jetsRus for adjustable needles for earlier years.
Steve