1986 VF500F with torn carb slide diaphragm - will 84-85 carbs work?

I found someone selling an 86 project bike that I'm kind of interested in. The biggest issue is the seller states that the carb was a total mess. In the process of cleaning and jetting, the carb slide diaphragm was torn and he was unable to find a new replacement. I'm not really familiar with the older gen bikes, I've only owned 2 5th gens and a 6th gen. From my understanding there are some significant changes in the 86 VF500 compared to 84-85, at least engine-wise. But I also found a dead thread that said 84-85 carbs will work on an 86. 84-85 parts seem to be in more ready supply. Can anyone provide more info if this is correct? Otherwise, does anyone know where to find suitable replacement parts, new or used?

Appreciate any input. I stupidly sold my latest 5th gen a couple years ago, and regret it every day. I'm hoping to rejoin the cult soon.

 

84-85 carbs will indeed work just fine on an 86 engine. I ran that set-up racing my VF500F.

The insulator boots are different, as the 84-85 carbs are bigger. The good news is those boots are cheaper.

Make sure the petcock is serviceable on the 86, fuel valve parts for the 500 are harder to find too. The larger 86 petcock, gravity fed and size reduced down to the front left fuel inlet on the 84/85 carbs works perfect. WFO on a very low tank presented zero fuel supply issues.