Preparing for carb clinic... Brass cap over idle screw

I have Mikuni carbs in my bike, but the idle screws have never been adjusted. They still have the brass cap over them. How do I get those out without damaging anything?

Also - my brother with the other carbs, which I can't remember the name of, also has the brass cap over his screw. So, same question - how do I take that off?

 

Carefully use a small drill bit (reverse drill bit reccomended) and drill center of cap, as soon as you feel the drill "break" thru the brass cover pull drill out, carefull not to continue into pilot screw. Then use a wood screw to screw into the hole usually just a few turns will do, then use a pair of pliars grab the wood screw and pull. the brass cover wil come out on the end of wood screw. Have done this many many times with a regular drill bit but a reverse drill bit is suggested, incase you do hit the pilot screw, it will not turn it in more (possibly breaking or damaging).

 

An inexpensive drill bit stop might be a good investment to prevent hitting the screw at all. Harbor Freight cheapy.

 

Thanks guys... But what is a drill bit stop? If that is what I think it is, then how do I know how far to go?

 

It is a metal collar that is set on a drill bit and secured with a set screw to provide consistant depth for multiple holes. I would suggest you set it no more than 2mm in depth. That should pass through the plug without getting too close to the screw. This is an eyeball factor so I'm not 100% sure of the depth. Anyone?

 

@mm should do. I think it is about 4 to 5mm to the screw.

 

That should read.......2mm should do. I think it is about 4 to 5mm to the screw.

 

Thanks guys, I will try to get that done before the carb clinic.