New to me 2000 IS needs a ltitle work

[longrider]

Like many of you I've owned a valk for many years.  I'm on my fourth  as I usually move them at about 120K.  Yes the wife (VTX18R) and I ride a bit.  None of the bikes have ever been to the dealer so I'm familiar with them.  Bought this bike in Phoenix.   Rode it home 1600 miles in three days. Carbs were done at the dealer as the bike sat for over a year.  Couple of issues that I need to look at so give me your suggestions before I tie into it. .   Idle is poor at times mostly on startup but noticeable when warm.  Cruising at speed it appears smooth but when even a bit of throttle is added I can hear what I would describe as an exhaust leak under the carbs as in maybe hose to pair valve?   Anyone ever had a leak under there?    My plan is to go through the entire bike and service everything.  I"ll shoot the exhaust with the temp gun to see if its pulling on 6 at idle cold, then go from there

[Bagger John - #3785]

In the desert, all rubber parts are suspect.

Change the vacuum hoses, vacuum caps, everything rubbery under the tank for starters. (Don't forget the O-rings under the intake runners.) Set the carburetor pilot air screws according to the service manual. Sync the carbs, then get yourself a digital tachometer capable of reading in 10-RPM increments, hook it up to the bike and adjust the air screws per the manual.

The above should eliminate everything but a diaphragm leak as a potential carb problem. Make sure the PAIR valves and the other smog plumbing are in good shape while the tank is off.

[Hook#3287]

Carbs were done at the dealer as the bike sat for over a year.

What does this mean?  If they pulled the carbs, you'd think they would replace most bad rubber they came across, but?

It does sound like a vacuum leak, but the slow jets could also need attention.

Some B-12 added to fresh gas and riding your bike at low rpm's may help.

Sounds like you know you're way around a Valk, but have you made sure the carb enrichers are working properly?

[longrider]

Well I've got her apart.  Carbs out for desmog.    Poor idle:   I think I've found the trouble,  checked the fuel screws and ....  turns open  #1-  5/8,      #2-  2 1/8,  #3-  7,  #4-  4,  #5- 2,
#6-  closed tight.   Exhaust noise::  Three of the six intake boots from the air cleaner were not on the carb properly.  Folded the edge over. The stealer tightened the clamps and just squeezed it until the clamp wouldnt go anymore.  carbs are sitting on the engine not hooked up.  tomorrow is another day.  I"ll find out soon how it sounds

[Hook#3287]

I'm betting you found the issues. 

Just another story to confirm Valk's are better off never seeing the inside of a stealership. 

[longrider]

Started the bike. Synced the carbs.  Smooth as a babies behind.  Noise is gone