Just to set the scene ....
I have the EX500 Kawasaki carbs. These are, of course, linked carbs
@Mailman. When I first got the bike running, I had a problem with a seriously rising idle and was advised to check and set the mixture screws which I did, and this fixed it. I think they are both set to 1.5 turns out. (I'd have to check my folder - don't laugh, I worked in IT and like to write things down.)
Now that I'm riding the bike more, I seem to be mentally compiling a "to do" list. I've mentioned this before, but I have to say, although it starts right up on the electric start I am sometimes at a loss to start it kick starting. At first I thought it was old age and my generally weedy frame. But now I'm a bit more adept I think it is more than that. So, it's on my list to look at.
The carbs were initially balanced on the bench.
My intention was to use the dead cylinder method to set the air mixture screws.
After that I intend to balance the carbs using a manometer.
Things I have checked or am happy with:
Bike charges fine and battery is healthy
Plugs are fine and I have a healthy spark,
I've used a spark tester. I'll post a picture and the spark jumps a fair gap.
Float levels are fine (checked with clear tube method)
Fuel is fresh
Good compression (in fairness not measured)
cam chain, valve lash and timing all set, and in that order.
So, am I right setting the air mixture screw setting using the dead cylinder method?
Dave