Motorcycle Repair: 85 Yamaha FJ1100, electrical harnesses, yamaha fj1100

Question
I just picked up a '85 Yamaha FJ1100 for free that has been sitting outside for the last 6 years uncovered under a deck.

When i brought it home i sprayed some carb cleaner in the intake and the thing fired right up and ran a little rough but it ran and idled and responded to throttle with not problem. The only thing now is i went to start it up after work and the intake box filled up with fuel and when i took it off i see what looks like floats with a small arch on the bottom that i can push up to the top and the arch is the cut out of the bore of the throttle in all 4 of the throttle openings these floats are sitting almost blocking the intake. My problem is i have no idea how carbs work and no idea if things are supposed to be like that or what to look out for. I am a master tech on cars and know how work on things but i just never learned how carbs work and figured this would be a great learning experience and just need some sound advice or at least a point in the right direction. Any help is appreciated, thanks in advance!

Answer
Carbs are an art all to themselves. It sounds like the float valves may be stuck open or may be leaking. A bike sitting idle for 6 years will probably need the carbs rebuilt.

Here's an excellent link on clening and rebuilding a rack of mikuni carbs which may be similar to what you have. At least it might help guide you a bit through the process:

http://www.thegsresources.com/gs_carbrebuild.htm

If you look at the microfiche, the float valve is #19 in this image:

http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/yamaha-motorcycle-fj1100n-1985/o/m7...

I hope you put the time into it as that FJ is an excellent bike.

Before you put the carbs back on, check the tank for rust and take care of that or you will have trouble with clogged jets.

Also, go over the electrical harnesses and clean off any corrosion or you will risk the operation of you regulator and stator as the wires heat up.