Greetings from a newbie.

Started work to fix gas leak at bottom of carb. Comes from small tube that doesn't have anything connected. Could it need a diaphragm replacement? What should the small tube connect to? Appreciate any help with 88 HARXL 883.

 

From what i can see in your photo... that looks like the vent/drain tube. Two reasons fuel will come from there. 1- The bowl drain screw isn't tight or sealing. In my experience if that screw is tight than its sealed. 2- your needle and seat either have crud keeping them from sealing or they are just ready to be replaced.

 

Carb bowl overflow. Most likely a stuck float/needle assembly or incorrect float level.

You can run a drain tube from that fitting and route down under engine to prevent gas splashing on hot engine. Don't plug it, it acts as a vent as well.

John