350x Carb Kits - None appear to be for 86

[wonderboy]

So I recently purchased an 86 350x carb for my machine. As usual, I ordered the Shindy carb kit to go through it. This and all other carb kits I've ever seen for the 350x are listed applicable to both the 85 and 86.

BUT... the carbs do NOT use all the same jets. The slow jet is different (1986 uses a 45 versus 1985 uses a 42) and the 86 has a separate starter jet in the side of the jet stack that isn't on the 85. I confirmed on the on-line parts ordering sites that the two do in fact call for different slow jets.

The slow jet is no big deal, at least in my case, the old one is usable. But if mine were not reusable, I'd have to go out and buy that one separately, which kinda defeats the purpose of a rebuild kit with all your parts. Also, the service manual doesn't mention the different number for the slow jet between years (goes to show the manual isn't always right).

I've never seen mention of this before, so I figured I post it up here as an FYI.

[Flyingw]

You are absolutely right Frank. The kits sold for the 86 are not correct. When I built my X a few years back, it had an 86 carb and put a Shindy kit in to it thinking the #42 would be ok. I WAS WRONG. On initial engine start after rebuilding the motor, I started the motor up and let it idle. After about 2 minutes of idling the head pipe started to glow. That #42 jet is way too lean. If I had let it idle too much longer, I probably would have damaged the motor. So guys, if you have an 86 carb (QA10A) do not use that slow jet provided in the Shindy kits. Reuse your old slow jet and the startup jet.

[wonderboy]

You know Jim, I think I do remember you posting about that now that you mention it... It is pretty amazing that it can make that much difference (I believe you, just surprised). So you have also answered my un-asked followup question: don't use the 42!

One other thing I didn't mention (and I'm not sure if it actually matters) is that the pilot screw has a different style head. The 85 having the smaller diameter and 86 having a larger diameter. I'll have to hold the two up next to each other (original 86 and new 85) and see how different they are.

Thanks for the confirmation Flyingw!

[Flyingw]

I've never compared the pilot screws. Yes please let us know if there are any significant differences in the pilot screws. Maybe a side by side pic.