Mikuni BS32 float valve needles

  • KeylAmi!
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Mikuni BS32 float valve needles

Yesterday 18:05
#927137
I have 3 different needles across 4 carbs. That’s what was in there when I got the bike. It’s a KZ700. But appears to have been “maintained” with whatever was lying around. 

anyways, for those of you who have some digital calipers, would you mind measuring your “confidently OEM” float valve needles?
im looking for the total length with spring, total length with spring compressed, and the square cross section width.
im getting about 17.2mm uncompressed. Two compress and bottom out at about 1mm. The other two bottom out flush, so about 2mm. 
3 of the 4 are about 5.5 mm wide. And the other is 5.25mm wide. 

Are any of these OEM-ish sounding specs? For the record, they all seem to work and seal well. I just find it strange that they’re all slightly different. And my ADHD brain is clawing at the inside of my skull until I figure out which ones need swapped so they’re all correct. 

oh! None of them are viton tipped. All metal construction. 2 have brass pins. Two have what appear to be aluminum pins?
Current project:
'84 KZ700

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  • Nessism
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Re: Mikuni BS32 float valve needles

Yesterday 05:33
#927141
Your bike should have BS34 carbs, not BS32.

From what you say, some previous owner must have used aftermarket "carb kits" in your carbs.  There is no value in trying to trace parts like these to their origin.  Use the clear tube method and verify proper fuel level in each carb.  Personally, I'd replace them all with either real deal Mikuni parts, or Keyster.  Those are the only float valves I trust.  

www.siriusconinc.com/products/detail/3786

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  • slmjim+Z1BEBE
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Re: Mikuni BS32 float valve needles

Today 05:10
#927170
   ^^^What Nessim said.^^^

  Also consider that seats may have been changed.  Needles and seats should be matched sets.  Replace them as such.

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