Suzuki 2 Strokes

When checking float height on T500 K carbs with a float gauge, do you check from the base with bowl gasket removed, gasket installed or from the lip of the carb body? I've heard different ways. Shop manual or Haynes manual doesn't say. Haynes manual also shows carb body straight up and down when measuring??? Shouldn't the carb body be tilted until the float just starts to depress the plunger on the needle valve? Thanks

From the base with bowl gasket removed, I also measure it sideways as well, like you said just as it touches the valve.

Base, no gasket. Tilted, as not to compress the float pin spring.

Thanks for confirming guys.