GS500 float height high

[nit]

I just finished rebuilding my carbs and installed them on the bike (1999 GS500E). I checked the float heights and I noticed that while the left carb looks spot on, the right carb is about 5mm above the top of the gasket. So questions: 1) Is it safe to run the bike like this? What are the problems that a high float height may cause? 2) Is there an easy way to change the float height without pulling the carbs back off? Can I drop the bowls with the carbs still on the bike?

Thanks!

[J_Walker]

run the bike at WOT for 500 miles, they'll bang themselves lean.

[nit]

So I left it on prime for a bit and fuel started coming out of the airbox drain hose. So I'm guessing the float needle valve is not sealing properly. Which is a massive pita, since I replaced the needle valve, seat, and o-ring. Is this something that I can try to fix with the carbs still on the bike, or do I have to take them back off

Thanks!

[Kilted1]

It's possible, easier if the JIS (quasi-phillips) bowl screws have been replaced with cap screws.  But adjusting floats and tinkering with needle valves is kind of delicate and can be frustrating in the best of circumstances.  It ultimately is easier to take it all apart first.