Real quick question

[81xsproject]

could I change a float needle and seat from an outside carb without removing the carbs?

[prometheus578]

Yes, but resetting the float level... that'd be iffy.
Question is... why are you changing only one?
Does the outside carb leak? Overflow?
Sure...Needle could be worn, but just how far behind it the other needles are worn, you can't tell.
Yes, you can remove all the float bowls with the carbs in place(did it two weeks ago to rejet), but it's really not worth the trouble, (especially #3).
Pull the bank of carbs, clean them and put in all new needles,(if needed), check float level, and your conscience is clear.
'member to bench test the carbs for leaks before reinstalling them.

[TopCatGr58]

Sorta quick answer,

Yes.......will be easier if your float pin went in from outside to inside! Also helpful to have short screwdrivers! Will be difficult to verify the float height though, but if you're careful not to bend the adjusting tang, then I would think that it should be close, since the new seat and needle should be very close to the same dimensions as the old ones...allowing for a variance in height due to wear/compression of the viton/rubber tipped needle!?
T.C.

[skids]

Re: Real quick question

It would be a LOT easier to remove the bank-o-carbs first!

Originally posted by 81xsproject
could I change a float needle and seat from an outside carb without removing the carbs?

[Winterhawk]

I use the Bob Jones method and the Carbs just slip right off in less than 10 min. The trick is the air box manipulation...LOL

[81xsproject]

I could find or figure out what this "Bob Jones method" is.

[81xsproject]

Thanks to all for the good advise and encouragement. I went ahead and pulled the whole bank, replaced all the float valves, found out that I have 110 mains across the board, and found that I made a mistake the first time I adjusted the floats and had them set to ~23mm insted of the correct (per Clymers) 25.7mm. I ordered my 4 new 120 mains last night. As soon as they get here, no more airbox! After my ride to school this morning I am so proud of myself that it runs great and the high idle when warm is gone.