VM26 carbs on kz650???

Looking at a set of VM26 carbs that are in great shape for my 77 KZ650. My question is will these VM26 carbs work on a 650 ? I think they were on a KZ1000. I don't need them if they are too big. Appreciate any input from people in the know or running VM26s on a 650.

Physically they will fit but you will need to adjust the jetting using the 650 specs as a baseline.
It was a common mod for tuned 650/750 engines, much like fitting 29 smoothies to the z900/1000.
If your engine is stock though you won't get the full benefit and would need as least a decent 4-1 pipe coupled with open carbs or pods as a minimum starting point.

So I could put the jets out of my stock carbs and they should work. I have pods.

GS963 wrote: So I could put the jets out of my stock carbs and they should work. I have pods.

No. For one thing pods drastically change the jetting needs of your bike even when running the stock carbs. Secondly, since the 26's are a different size that's a double whammy. I'm sure those VM26's can be made to work but expect to spend a fair bit of time experimenting with different jetting and needle configurations. And even if you had a set of stock VM24's, since you installed pods you would still have to rejet. The smaller carbs would likely be a little easier to get right though since the velocity and vacuum signal through the carb would be higher.

I see. Well it looks like I should look for a set of 24s then. Appreciate your input.

Been done plenty of times .
Search the internet and see.
Most use the 650 jetting as a base and go up on the mains just as you would if boring out the stock carbs but you could try them as they come with the 1000 set up.
For the off idle flat spot caused by the pods you can either lift the needles to mask it ( but end up being slightly too rich elsewhere ) or do it properly and fit air corrector jets in the jet tubes air bleed in the mouth of the carbs..
You will need to play a little with the settings but that's a given if you want to modify and learn something in the process.
What is the reason behind wanting another set of 24's if you already have some or the 26's
Are the 24's damaged and you need another set and the 26's are easier to source or cheaper ?

Understand! I want to keep it original if possible. Someone messed up the fuel tube on my carbs by putting jb weld on it rather than changing the o ring. I have just about got it cleaned off but still am not sure it will work. I may try to use them if the tube does not leak. I plan on putting the air box back on as it came. I have not bought the 26s yet. May not get them Im not good with carbs of this type. I could maybe clean and put back together without messing with any adjustments and hope they are still synced. Wish I could fine a good stock set. I appreciate your advice.

Rebuilding VM carbs is not difficult. Just take some photos before you begin and take your time. Short cuts are long cuts so remember that as you go.
This tutorial is for VM26's but most of the parts are the same. cycleorings.com sells sets of O-rings for cheap.
members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/i.../vm_carb_rebuild.pdf

If the fuel Tee is damaged finding a replacement can be a challenge but there are aftermarket versions in the marketplace if it comes to that.