Jimbo W, on my XS SH I find the best way to remove the carbs is to remove the following
- Filter/air boxes
- Oil dip stick (plug the hole with tissue so nothing falls in)
- The big domed nut on the cam chain adjuster
- Left side cover to get clutch cable out of way
- Breather pipe
- Obviously the throttle cable/fuel line.
Seems a lot of work but opens up lots of room for removing the carburetors. Also, now that I have Allen screws holding the float bowl in place it is very easy to adjust the fuel level with the carbs left in place. Just made an adjustment yesterday and it was a breeze.