KZ550 LTD pod filters

I know there are a ton of threads dedicated to pod filters, but I didn't notice any dedicated specifically to the KZ550 LTD.

It's early "Spring", and I am getting the itch to ride again (NW PA). The last time I took off my air box, I swore that I was going to get some pod filters (39mm) because it was such a pain.

I've read that getting pod filters will require me to adjust my carbs a little bit. If so, are pod filters really worth it in the end?

I've wondered the same thing, I know on the 440's you need to tweek the carbs, but on the 440 it is also need impossible to tweek the stock carbs with much success. So I dont know if the the 550's are the same or similar, all I know is life would be a heck of a lot easier with pod filters. The air box is a huge pain, it's large and unattractive next to the streamline chrome pod's.

How bad would it be to run the pods with no carb tweeks? thats my question..

nbrider wrote:

How bad would it be to run the pods with no carb tweeks? thats my question..

^^^
I second his question.

Joey, For your' LTD w/stock well everything..Just tough it out... Pulling carbs while is often a pain w/aged rubber is little compared to the marginal gains of pods and the time/effort required to make 'em "right". The stock airbox is quieter/smoother in it's transitions & fine for the LTD's stance/riding charactaristics. MHOP G

There are many threads on pods and the early KZ550 carbs. Those carbs do well with pods because they are so simple... mechanical slide, two jets and an air screw.

What matters is the type of pods you have and the exhaust system.

For a starting point, you will probably want 96 or 98 mains, and stock (32) to 37 pilot jets, but they are not available.

If you get one of the several rebuild kits out there, you will get adjustable needles with them. Use them at the third clip from the top (second from top matches the stock needles). It will also come with 92 mains and 32 pilots. I have not seen any other size pilots, so I drill my own. If you compensate with the needle, it will not be ideal, but you might get by without a pilot change.

Your carbs (TK-22) can use small-head Keihin main jets.

There are also kits from Dynojet.

Set the air-screws using the normal lean-drop method. You should end up about 1/2 to 1-1/2 turns out.

Are new airbox ducts available for that bike?