Aftermarket Carb Boots

(Apologies for resurrecting an old thread; simply hope this additional information helps someone in the future. If such comments are uncalled for, do let me know and I'll stop.)

Did the same thing as hopit88 and it worked a treat. On the 86 VF500F carb side is 36mm diameter, engine side 38mm. Purchased 38mm I.D. as well as 35mm I.D. fuel hose from a local supplier. The 38mm turned out to be way too big to clamp without risking vaccuum leaks, fortunately the 35mm was pliable enough to persuade it on for a tight fit.

For those going this route: you might want to consider dremelling grooves on the inside for the lip of the engine / carb throat as it helps keep the boots in place when fiddling carbs back on the engine.