TOPIC:

not real sure about what the stock carbs are on this model...just picked it up for 50$...wondering if they are worth cleaning or if i should look into upgrading...thanx in advance..

You should have Tekei carbs (TK 22's) on an 81 550.
Is it a worthwhile endeavour to clean them up...why not?
Carb kits are available too iffn ya need em.
Good luck.
Replacing all the phillips head carb screws with allen head (socket head cap screws) is a good idea while you have them apart. A grief saver!

Are the carbs silver or black?
Silver would make it an "A" model or "C" model. Black would be a "D" model. The D model uses different main jets.

carbs are silver..