Vacum hose question on a California model

[C908]

I was checking for vacuum leaks and in the process my number 4 line came unplugged from the little T. While I was trying to get it plugged back in which I did the line that comes from above that plugs in the top of the T piece came unplugged. I went ahead and capped it off and started it up and it didn't sound to bad.So the way it is now is everything is hooked up with the #4 plugged in one side of the T with the vacuum line and the center carb on the other side plugged into the other side of the T with the vacuum line and then the top of the T is capped off. My question is can I get by with it this way or will I have to pull my air box  to plug the hose back in from above where I capped it off. Its been a few years since I changed out all the vacuum lines  so I can't remember exactly where that upper hose plugs in. I just remember I didn't enjoy putting the air box back on  so I'm trying to avoid that if possible. Thanks for your feedback.

[C908]

Just came back from test ride and experienced backfiring at highway speeds. I forgot to mention I adjusted all the pilots 2 1/2 turns out. The service manual says backfiring can be caused by running to lean but I wouldn't think that would be the case at 2 1/2 turns out. Please keep in mind this is a California model. I'm going to let it cool down and hope somebody gives me a suggestion on my next move.  Thanks.

[sandy]

I have a CA model and still have all my smog stuff. I too changed out the vacuum lines a couple of years ago. The Vac line you have disconnected operates the PAIR valves which pumps fresh air into the exhaust sytem. This air allows unburned hydrocarbons to finish burning as it leaves the exhaust pipes. Possibly: you are a bit rich and the popping is fuel exploding in the pipes due to improper air/fuel ratio in the pipes. You might also check the other "popping" culprits. Intake O rings, exhaust nuts, clamps on carb inlet and outlet to runners.

[C908]

Thanks for your response, I'm going to just take my time and pull my tank and air box and replace all the vacuum lines again. I think I may try and use some type of small clamps on the T shape piece this time so the hoses won't pull off so easy. I am tempted to desmog but I worry it could cause me a problem later if I decide to trade my bike.