Adjusting float level on Harley cv carb

I've read the tutorials on how to set the float level on the cv carbs. I'm just wondering about the process. Why does the carb need to be placed on an 18 degree incline to adjust float level? I've worked on a lot of other carbs and with most you just turn them upside down and check float level with the needle fully seated. Should the needle be fully seated in the seat when it's at 18 degrees of incline and if so how would it change anything to turn it completely upside down? I appreciate any help. I like to understand things when I do them. Makes it easier to troubleshoot later on.

17.5 degrees is the mid-point between the two extremes you can set the float. I made a wedge of wood cut at that angle (resembles a doorstop) and set the carb on it and made the adjustment. It gives you some leeway if the float goes out of alignment either way while in service.

I've had no problem with mine so far.

I believe the odd angle is due to the fact that the needle is spring loaded. most carbs in the auto industries have less shake rattle and roll than sport utility applications. the spring loaded needle is much more forgiving.

Thanks, I have a wedge I made that is 18 degrees. I'll make another at 17.5. I know how to set the float I just would like to understand why it is done like this as opposed to just turning the carb upside down and adjusting the float height.

Hello Bambidee, I didn't know the needle was spring loaded. Makes sense now. I've converted a Suzuki Sidekick from fuel injection to CV Carb and am in the final stages of getting it running. Thanks for the insight.

How do you like trying to bend the tabs, arg!!!

Not the easiest thing in the world to do, for sure. Sort of bend and see, bend and see. Once they're set, though, they should be good for a long, long while.

I'm using an upholstery needle to bend the tab. It would be a lot easier if they made the float pin easier to get out. Oh well, I'm getting close and once it's adjusted it'll be done. Can't afford a whole Harley so part of one will have to do. Thanks for all the help.

Just as long as you see the arrow as to which way the pin pushes out you won't damage the carb. Then push it back in the way it came out.

I have a tiny screw driver I put under the float tab bend it up. To lower one, I've not had to do yet, I'll take the float out to bend it down then hope I get it bent back up ok so I don't have to take it back out. The one I had to do, raise, I got Lucky and got it the first try and didn't have to take it out to bend it back down. I can't see an easy way to bend down assembled.

To check float height I put a hose on the fuel inlet, put the carb flat then blew until I can no longer blow in because the needle seats. I make sure the float seam is parallel with the bottom of the carb. I don't have a degree finder to make a proper stand. This was a trick I saw on YouTube, it works.

Sounds good to me. I think, when you get down to it, you set things up to suit your needs. There's always some room for tweaking. I'll try your method. It's the same as a lot of automotive applications. I've got time, should be educational and I'll know more than when I started.
Thanks

I forgot to say I push on the float till the needle shuts. I view the height when in push the float until the needle seats. It takes a long hose to do this. I let the needle open then shut till im sure of what I see. It takes a easy touch!