Ok guys! I haven't posted anything on the thread in over six weeks because I've been.........let's just say..........busy with my 83!!!! I've done many repairs including a complete rebuild on the carbs, which is why I started the thread in the first place.
I am glad to report that the break I caused on the carb body did not affect a thing! You guys got it right. I adjusted and synchronized the carburetors and "she" idles and runs beautifully! I attached pictures of some of the steps in the rebuild process if you guys want to check them out.
Here is a list of what I did/replaced on the carburetors:
- complete disassembly of all four carburetor bodies
- a detailed & deep cleaning of all parts, jets & passageways using varies methods
(soaking & spraying w/cleaner, compressed air, media blasting w/baking soda, brushing)
- 4 new gasket/o-ring kits
- 4 new diaphragms (old ones had tears and pin sized holes)
- one new float in carb #2 (old one was deteriorated & taking in gasoline)
- new (Allen) bolts on all 4 slide/diaphragm covers (the stock Phillips heads tend to strip)
- new hex head bolts on all four support brackets
(this enables you to get much better torque when attaching carbs back together)
- all new fuel lines and hose clamps
- all new (4) fuel bowl drain hoses
- checked (and calibrated when needed) float heights with digital calipers
(1.025in. worked great for me in achieving the next step)
- set fuel levels on all 4 carbs to 14mm (+/- .05mm) below piston valve center mark
- synchronized carbs with vaccum gauges
(I will say that it took me almost an hour and a half but I got it right on the money!!!!)
- adjusted all four air mixture screws to approximately 2.5/3 turns out
(this also worked great for me; not too rich or too lean)
It is possible that I forgot to list a few other things/steps I did to the carbs but overall my 83 runs and idles very well (I set idle right at 1,000rpm). I had read and heard the difference that a full rebuild would make but I was blown away at the results!!!!