Motorcycle Repair: Cant set fuel level, spring loaded plunger, little spring

Question
Hi Jerry:  I have a 1987 yamaha xv700cs that had been setting for over a year, I cleaned the tank and soaked the carbs in cleaner. I got new carb kits on e-bay and put them in and now when i try to set the fuel level i can get the level up to within 1/4" of the bowl edge but it slowly rises and runs out.any where below 1/4" and the flow shuts off. I checked the vents they are open and the floats are not hitting anywhere. what is wrong? what is the best way to set the floats? Thanks Roger

Answer
That is what you are looking for the fuel to shut off.I usually start with the top of the float completely horizontal with the carb body. Do the needles have a little spring loaded plunger in them if so the float should just start to depress this when it is horizontal to the carb body.As long as there is fuel in the boles to support the needs of the jets you are usually good to go.Get back to me on this if you have any problems   Jerry