It's Dead Jim.

[DGXSER]

Dp you own a dremel with a couple cutoff wheels? To make the solution a little bit easier than the hot metal work Fred suggested, take the same bolt, and cut a flat on it on the side the float will sit in. Use a flat file or a dremel or combo of both to cut the flat spot. Screw it into the carb body and your good to go.

[Joab]

So, does this mean the cat won't be getting riding lesson Jaob?

Sadly, he will not. however, flying lessons are not out of the question...

I don't own a Dremmel yet DGXSER, although I have been sorely in need of one in the last two years. Sounds like a good plan, if I try to salvage this bank of carbs, instead of finding the proper type for the 79 (if it even matters?) I will definitely go that route for shaping the bolt.

[DGXSER]

As to matching the year carbs to the bike. If your looking to do a full factory type restore, sure it matters. If your looking to have a runner that simply gets you where you want to go, it makes no real difference. Another local XSive has a 79 Special that use to belong to their dad. The carbs had issues due to letting a local "mechanic" work on the bike. In the end we put the 81 carbs from the SH I wrecked a couple years ago on the SF. Runs like a scalded dog.

No dremel, well, if you have a flat file, you can do the same work. Just takes ALOT longer to do it. But then, what else you going to do but stare at the thing.