sourcing parts for a VF500F?

Howdy all-

I just joined the forum as I'm in the middle of rebuilding two VF500Fs (84 and 85) that I've had sitting in my garage for the past 8 years. They're both in rough condition, but I'm hoping to get at least one good bike out of the two, which won't be bad for the total of $200 I spent on both. I'm not looking to resto to factory, in fact, I'm probably going to street fighter it, since I can't afford the plastics.

My problem now that I've started to dig into them is that I can't find any parts for them! I'm hoping that people have found good alternates that I can be pointed to.

I need:
# carb rubber bits - the float bowl gaskets look suspect, and I'd like to replace all the o-rings, since I do not want to pull these damn things again!
# master cylinders - all of my master cylinders have leaking sight glasses, and shot seals. Are there MCs off more modern/numerous bikes that I can source these cheaply? I don't think I want to rebuild these.
# brake lines - All are dry rotted, and I'd like to go to SS and especially to dual single lines up front. Are there other bikes that I order for that'll fit my mini-ceptor just fine?
# plug wires - Can I just replace these with solid core straight booted automotive wires of the proper diameter? I saw v4market has a set for $45, but that seems a bit excessive for four wires to me.

Thanks a bunch!
Z

 

Jamie at Daugherty Motorsports got in touch with me about a carb seal kit. He's got them and they're inexpensive, yay!

Z

 

If you search for a little bit on the site you'll find answers for your questions. I think I've addressed all these on my bike so here goes:
The carb bowl gaskets are simple viton o-rings. You can get them from McMaster carr 10 for $6.00.
The site glass can be replaced with watch glass. Search the site for the correct size. I just measured and bought them off ebay. $10.
You can get custom made brake lines from this place Custom Brake Hoses | E.L. Johnston Auto Parts
Hard to beat V4s wires. They are really nice. There may be cheaper alternatives out there but you need the long boots. I like support companies that support our bikes so...
Good luck,
Jim