Carb choice

[geniusloerts]

So i was wondering if there was a diffrence between 79 special carbs and the 82 XJ carbs that would be a better advantage for my bike?

[81xsproject]

It has been said that the 70's offer better performance. However, I think that I would disagree and say that they are more tunable. They have the adjustable slide needles unlike the 80's carbs. However, on a set that I redid recently, I found that at least on my bike, the '78 carbs didn't perform as well. They did have a smoother power curve than my 80's though. I think this is due to the sharing of fuel through the main jet for both pilot and main circuits. Unlike the 80's that have them completely separate. One MAJOR difference is the starter jets. 78s have a #40, 79s have a #35, and the 80's have 25s. I don't know why there is a difference, but my bike wouldn't ever fire on full choke with the 78's on there. I had to start it on half choke. I would say go with the carbs that match your bike 70s-70s, 80's to 80's.

Just my 2 cents

[geniusloerts]

I belive i have heard that before. Has anyone ever had trouble with the brass bolts on the bottom of the float bowls leaking?...I have one that is, i have tried to look for some new ones but havent found any.

[prometheus578]

I have seen some staining on the bolts/bowls at times.
Should be an aluminum type washer there.
Try taking the old washer, and resurfacing it on some fine grade sandpaper.

[jetmechmarty]

Tunable Needles

Tunable needles are available from Mike's XS. I believe the part number you require is #48-0663.