Are thare differences in Carb Boots between model years?

[Slimbob]

Hello,
I have recently acquired a 1981 XS11 Special. The Carbs were off when I got it and in need of cleaning. The Carb boots look terrible. I really don't want to go through all the cleaning and rebuilding of the carbs and install them only to find out the boots are cracked and leaking.

My question is, "Are there any differences in the boots vs. model year of the bike? Or are they all interchangable between model years?"

Any preferred sources or manufacturers?

Thank you,
Slimbob

[D0wn5h1ft]

You can remove the carb boots and visually inspect the inside with a flashlight to see if they're cracked all the way through. From what I understand, the outside and inside of the boot are made of different materials so while the outside may look bad the inside may be fine.

[Slimbob]

That is very helpful but I would like to replace them and maybe keep these for spares if they look ok inside. They have been sitting for ~12 yrs and are probably the originals.

I need to know if they are the same for all yrs 78-82 and if there are any recommendations for or against certain manufacturers.

Thank you,
Slimbob

[bikerphil]

They are all the same for all years. SCI has them for $69....

http://www.siriusconinc.com/search_result.php?make=2&model=xs1100&part=1&partno=&search=search&x=36&y=15

[TomB]

The carb inlet boots are cast aluminium inside, the aluminium stops maybe 1/4" short of the carb to allow the rubber to be flexible to get the carb in.

The only place you really need to check for splits/leaks is around that area, any other splits just look bad.

Here is an XS1100 inlet with the rubber removed

[Slimbob]

Thanks Guys!!!

That's what I needed to know.

Slimbob

[bikerphil]

Also, when you install new boots, I wouldn't use the paper gaskets that are included, they tend to fail after a short while. Apply RTV with your finger instead of the gasket and make sure to wipe any excess out of the inside of the boot, excessive amount beading up in there after tightening may interrupt fuel delivery. JMHO

[James England]

The carb inlet boots are cast aluminium inside, the aluminium stops maybe 1/4" short of the carb to allow the rubber to be flexible to get the carb in.

The only place you really need to check for splits/leaks is around that area, any other splits just look bad.

Here is an XS1100 inlet with the rubber removed

one learns something every day! I never knew re the alloy....