CV Carb Slide "Boots" How to tell if OK?

[1980GS1000E]

I looked at the GS850 carb technical info and pics on this site (excellent) and now I am wondering how to tell when the CV carb diaphragms are bad. Mine appear to be a little swollen and wrinkled when in position in the carbs. I am having some (what I believe to be) carb issues and probably should rebuild these carbs as they look almost 30 years old, imagine that? But the diaphragms on Z1's site retail for $94! Each! So, my question is, how do I know if they are bad and causing slide sticking, etc?

[tkent02]

Do they leak air? That's all that really matters.

[Steve]

It's easy to see if they are sticking, just try to move them up and down.

The other problem that diaphragms might have is holes. To inspect for holes, just gently stretch the diaphragm and hold it up against a light. Slowly rotate the diaphragm to look for holes all the way around.

This is what you don't want to see.



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[1980GS1000E]

Thanks for that great photo. I don't know if that is what is the problem is. They do appear to be wrinkled and a little swollen or stretched. I was hoping to be able to see if they stick while the carbs are still on te bike.