Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums General Tech "D" shaped air screw help

So, I've got an 04 TBA with the darn D screw. Say I were to pull this thing out, could I cut a slot in it for a flathead? When I pull it out is there a spring and washer that comes out with? Just trying to get prepared for the worst if at all possible, and don't wanna spend the $$ for one little tool.

Thanks.

Yes you can cut a slot in it, just be careful. There is a spring, washer, and O-ring on the screw so definitely put a towel under the carb while removing. A standard brake line squashed on one side will form a suitable D.

Thanks man. I just like to have a little know how and confidence when going into something like this. Anybody done it before?

For $17, I'd rather buy the tool.....it seems like too much trouble to change the screws. More trouble then it's worth.

Unless I'm missing something, I wouldn't think you could change them out with out take'n the carbs off the bike.

The air screw just unscrews straight from the bottom of the carbs towards the front. No removal of carbs required. I'm just saying if I have to make a tool to just to get them off I will, but I don't wanna rely on a brake line everytime I adjust. So make the tool, drop out the screws, cut the slot, and insert with a common flat screwdriver. Who knows, the freak kit or air pods may be in the near future, and anything else I change will require some adjustment.

Exactly, make that D tool once, cut the slots, throw the tool away. The screws are brass of course so cutting a slot will be very easy. There's a few here who have done this and as long as you don't cut them in half, you are good to go!

btw, I ended up getting the thumb screws to make it very simple.

I just noticed that your bike is an 04'....mine is an 07-the left side engine case is different.

I can bearly remove the L side float bowl while on the bike if you can believe it....I couldn't imagine taken out that screw. As it is, it's an issue just to get at it with the "D" tool. nevermind a screw driver.

I like the thumb screws-great idea. But they are $35 and the "D" was free. Thanks to Frank. LOL

Do yourself a favor! Save the $ and get the thumbscrews if u r going to keep the bike. I went through this Sunday & I have the D tool. I am ordering the thumbscrews tonight. The adjustments are more easily precise.

I took my D screws out with needle nose pliers and used my dremel with a cut off wheel to cut a slot in it. I had the carbs off when I did it.

+1 on the thumbscrews. After all we went through to get them made, buy 'em!
Besides, you can mark the thumbwheel and "see" the number of turns much easier than fumbling with a tiny screwdriver or "D" tool.....

Funny I guess great minds think alike. Just finished doin exactly what you said Ian. Took them out with needle nose pliers, and cut a slot in them with a dremel. Took all about 10 minutes.