Got a few tech questions for you masters...

[sickopsycho]

Originally Posted by Triple Jim

My procedure for setting idle mixture is to adjust for maximum RPM, erring very slightly on the rich side. Others may prefer different methods. The needle position should have close to zero effect on the idle mixture.

I kicked them both back out to my original setting of 2.5 turns out and it runs fine now. I guess I should listen to the old adage... if it ain't broke, don't fix it =)
Thanks, Jim.

[jkv45]

Originally Posted by sickopsycho

Well, I pulled the carbs out and raised the needles 1 position. The bike now runs quite a bit better in the midrange... Just really smooth. Unfortunately now my butter smooth idle has a bit of a surge to it. Not much, I can hear it more than see it in the tachometer... Is that an indication of imbalance or what? I leaned the air/fuel mixture screws by 1/4 turn (all the way in, then out 2 1/4 turns), but they are both in the same position... Not sure what would have caused this.

EDIT: Didn't see your reply before writing this

Turn the idle mixture screws back out.

I usually tune the idle mixture like Jim does - highest RPM then 1/16 to 1/8 richer or until you start to hear a drop in RPMs.

Cold temps will lean the mixture, so the idle mixture adjustment can change. Gas with ethanol gives you a leaner mixture than gas without on a carbed engine.