Leaking Float Bowl Gaskets

[cshores]

I just rebuilt my carbs with Keyster kits and replaced the float bowl gaskets. Several of the carbs are now leaking through the gaskets. Does anyone know, are you supposed to use a gasket sealer with the float bowl gaskets ? I think the problem is that I didn't torque up the bowl screws enough, but thought I would see what people thought.

[CRAZY DAVE]

It sounds as though your float level is too high or the needle valves are sticcking. The gaskets are above the fuel level if I remember correctly. I had 2 stick on my 80 and I was -at least I think so- smart by first checking the needle valves for sticking and then for leaking B-4 I put them back on the bike. I did this putting the tank on a padded table in the driveway, hooking up a 2 foot section of fuel line, and holding the whole rack of carbs-minus the float bowls- next to the bike- and turning on the fuel. My son helped by holding up 4 floats and I went from one end to the other letting each one down one at a time to check for flow and to make sure that the needle valve would shut the flow off as well. We then rechecked the float level, turned the rack over, buttoned them up and set them at the same angle as they would be on the bike and turned on the fuel again. It is much easier to check it this way than on the bike. Like checking a toilet for over flowing outside instead of in the corner of the bathroom. Good luck. David

[Mike Nixon]

Does anyone know, are you supposed to use a gasket sealer with the float bowl gaskets ?

The o-rings must be attached to the bowls with a light application of gasket sealer such as Gaskacinch (my own favorite). Ensure that no extra sealer gets inside the bowls, and do not put any on top of the gasket (against the carburetor side). It isn't needed.