Need help with carb fuel leak on 2001 GS500 and adjustments..

[Tonyp884]

Hey Guys,
About 6 weeks ago I bought a really nice looking 2001 GS500E with just under 5000 miles on it. Today it has 7100 miles on it. It runs great, and it is totally stock as far as carbs and motor. I'm sure they have never been wrenched on. A couple weeks ago a leak developed on one of the carbs, I ordered a new bowl gasket and that took care of the leak. Today I smelled fuel again and it looks like the pipe that I think carries fuel between the two carbs is leaking slightly kinda like a seeping. So, I guess I need to remove the carbs but I do not know what I will need to do to stop this small leak. Might I need a carb kit? O-rings?, or just clean & tightened? While I am in there I may remove the plugs and enrichen the fuel mixture screws. At least that is what a friend suggested. Another thought, on cool mornings say 50 degrees F, I need to use the choke to get the bike to start and idle. But, what I do not like is with a full choke at cold start the engine immeadiately idles at 4k rpms which I do not like on a cold start. Is the fast idle rpm adjustable?
Before I start this I'd appreciate some insight!

I live in NC and in June 2014 I plan to ride this bike across country to Arizona and bike over a 3 week period about 5600 miles.

So far I have installed a brighter headlamp, headlight modulator, new rear tire, LED tail light bulbs, 1/4 fairing, louder dual horns with a relay, new grips, new plugs, oil and filter, new fuel lines, soft saddlebags and tankbag, brake and clutch levers, painted the exhaust header, flushed front and rear brakes with new fluid, Black Daytona bend bars,  fenderectomy, ....
Upcoming I need a Yamaha rear shock (mine is leaking), Front Lazertec tire, valve adjustment, install a fuel filter, and I want to modify front and rear turn signals for a dual filament bulbs for running lights / turn signals combo.

I'd appreciate all insight and any suggestions.
Tony P
New Salem, NC USA
2001 GS500