Topic: CB500, 4-2, pods... what jets

[JRK5892]

so i tore out the 1972 CB500 carbs, put in rebuild kits... and when i went to install them the boots on the air cleaner box ripped , pretty bad in a few spots... it is just going to be cheaper for me to toss jets in and pods on this sucker, i wanted to get an idea of what jets you guys are running to make this set up work... i just can not get this sucker to run smooth! driving me nuts!

so if i toss on pod filters, i have a 4-2 exhaust... what jets will i need to run?

[buffalogt750]

Probably 110 or 115 mains.  I hope you know that you have risked calling out the pod haters.

[JRK5892]

ahh trust me i would rather keep the stock set up, however... i do not want to have to buy new boots for the air box, and air filter, it would simply be cheaper to toss on new jets and pods. it is going to be a bar hopper cafe for my wife, nothing wild.

if you guys know how i can fix my stock boots or get some on the cheap i would rather do that!

[Flying J]

Im running 110 in mine and thought it was running great but i did a plug chop the other day and its pretty lean. So you can through on pod and guess at jets but unless your will ing to go through the effort of plug chopping and adjusting i say get the boots. The pods do make it easier to get the carbs on and off, and you will have to do this a bunch if you really care to get the right jetting on your carbs.

[BVCB650]

You might be able to repair them with some 100% silicon tube caulk. I checked on bikebandit and they are no longer available.

[JRK5892]

well i will try to do the repair first! THAT WOULD BE IDEAL! ill pull it out of the back of the shop this weekend and have another go at it! thanks fellas

[Cvillechopper]

Be careful using caulk.  If you're talking about a serious tear it might be big enough to pull the caulk through.  No matter the size make sure the caulk cures FULLY before trying it out.  Wouldn't want to be cleaning silicon from inside your carbs

[JRK5892]

True... what about some of the other types of sealants like "the right stuff" or permatex? think any of that may work out well?