Motorcycle Repair: 1986 Suzuki TS250X float bowl leak, pit holes, enduro bike

Question
My 1986 UK liquid cooled Suzuki TS250X enduro bike (not sure of the designation since it is very previously owned) has a persistent, slow dribble of fuel from (what I take to be) the drain plug on the left hand side of the carb. It also has a tendency to get rougher and smokier at idle which clears once it is run at speed for a while which seems to imply a float height setting problem but I'm NO mechanic.

Bike is old and battered but not modded AFAIK.

If it is the float setting, what should it be and how do I set it? If not, what could it be?

Thanks,

HKFroon@boltblue.com

Answer
Hi Harry,

I could find no tech or spec information on your TS250X.

The drain screw seal could be defective or there may be a tuning issue.

The fuel service level may be rich. Try adjusting the float leaner and observe the results. Measure float height prior to adjusting in order to restore the original setting if necessary.

Check the drain/over flow pipe for splitting/cracks and pit holes. All of which cause leaking and are difficult to see.

Check the float bowl drain screw seal. Replace if in doubt.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively