I've got a '98 F3 with really big power drops at low RPM during quick acceleration. I'm going to clean the carbs out myself (first time). I read all the instructions on this forum about carb cleaning, but no one ever mentions gaskets and o-rings. I notice that there are some large float bowl gaskets in the carburetor components diagram (labeled "1" and "2" and called "gasket set" and "gasket set A" respectively).

1) Do I need to replace these gaskets when I open the bowls or can I re-use them (and how do I tell if they're ok to re-use?)
2) Are there other gaskets and o-rings to replace?
3) If so, where can I find aftermarket versions of tha gaskets (Honda OEM parts cost $125 for 4 gaskets!!)

For info, I suspect the carbs have never been cleaned and the bike sat for at least 1 year with gas in the tank. The bike is stock and has about 6K miles on it.

Thanks for your help!

 

No need fornew gasket, only if they are leaking. I took my carbs apart twice and never needed to replace any of the rubber gasket.

Just becareful when you pull the parts apart. If the rubber is sticking, just pry NOT PULL them apart.
But, if they not sticking, you be ok.

 

Yamaha makes a great carb cleaner that does not eat up the o-rings.

Best of luck.