I think that Tailgunner is right on the money. Just some advice however - don't perform the carb covering test too often, can lead to causing more problems down the road!
Broken or worn out reeds on a 1988 could be possible but is unlikely - you hope!. The only way I know of testing this possible problem without opening the motor up is by increasing the oil to gas ratio. This causes the fuel to be less viscous within the motor and less likely to slip past the reeds and causing a floading condition that you may be experiencing. If your motor's symptoms subside with a higher mixture (16:1) then the reeds could be a possible cause... but try the carbs first and remember that this test above should be used only for a short duration - otherwise you'll have some seriously fouled plugs!
~Andrew