Target Audience:
Primarily professional technicians, but also suitable for DIY mechanics with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.
Comparison To Print:
Functionally identical to printed manuals, offering the convenience of immediate digital access and portability.
Content Type:
Step-by-step repair procedures, critical specifications, illustrations/pictures, maintenance schedules, disassembly/assembly instructions.
Benefits:
Empowers owners to make informed maintenance and repair decisions, learn factory-trained technician knowledge.
Models Covered:
Kawasaki KZ500, KZ550, ZX550
Estimated Page Count:
Varies based on edition, typically 300-600 pages for a comprehensive service manual
Type:
Service Repair Manual (Factory Service Manual equivalent)
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, specifications, lubrication, cooling system, starting system, charging system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, troubleshooting, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox inspection and repair, final drive maintenance (chain/sprockets).
Electrical System:
Ignition system (CDI, ignition coils), lighting system, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), starting motor, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork overhaul, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, steering head bearing maintenance, swingarm lubrication and inspection.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance (disc brakes), caliper overhaul, master cylinder inspection, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedure.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection and replacement, spoke tension adjustment (if applicable).
Bodywork Frame:
Fairing removal and installation, seat maintenance, fuel tank removal and installation, frame inspection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake checks, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for taking apart and putting back together major vehicle components.
Cleaning:
Guidelines for cleaning specific components, particularly carburetors and engine parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers detailed specifications, schematics, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type Kz500:
4-stroke, DOHC, air-cooled, parallel-twin
Engine Displacement Kz500:
498 cc (30.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke Kz500:
66.0 mm x 72.0 mm
Engine Type Kz550 Zx550:
4-stroke, DOHC, air-cooled, parallel-twin
Engine Displacement Kz550 Zx550:
553 cc (33.7 cu in)
Bore X Stroke Kz550 Zx550:
70.0 mm x 71.5 mm
Estimated Horsepower Kz500:
Approx. 48-50 HP at 9000 RPM
Estimated Horsepower Kz550 Zx550:
Approx. 57-60 HP at 9000 RPM (ZX550 GPz variants often slightly higher)
Carburetor Kz500:
Twin Mikuni VM26SS constant velocity carburetors
Carburetor Kz550 Zx550:
Twin Mikuni VM28SS constant velocity carburetors
Safety Ratings Era:
Motorcycle safety standards of the era, focused on mechanical integrity and rider control.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear (standard on most variants, some early KZ500 might have drum rear).
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame providing rigidity and rider support.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, refer to manual for exact intervals.
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Recommended every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,000 miles), crucial for engine performance.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SE or SF classification (verify with manual).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 - 3.0 liters (2.6 - 3.2 quarts) with filter change (verify with manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual for specific requirements).
Carburetor Issues:
Clogged or out-of-sync carburetors are common, leading to poor running or starting issues. Diaphragm wear in CV carbs can also be a factor.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related degradation of wiring, connectors, and rectifier/regulator units can cause charging problems or intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Wear:
Fork seals, fork oil degradation, and worn rear shock absorbers are common wear items on older motorcycles.
Ignition System:
CDI units can fail over time, leading to no spark or intermittent ignition.
Kawasaki Motorcycle Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing high-performance motorcycles, particularly in the sportbike and streetfighter segments. The KZ series represents a significant era for the company.
Kz500 Introduction:
The KZ500 was introduced as a more performance-oriented middleweight motorcycle, often seen as a successor or alternative to older KZ400 models.
Kz550 Introduction:
The KZ550 built upon the KZ500 platform, offering increased displacement and performance. The KZ550-B Spectre was a cruiser-styled variant, while the ZX550 (GPz550) was the sport-focused model with a distinctive fairing and improved suspension/brakes.
Production Period:
The KZ500/KZ550/ZX550 series was primarily produced in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with the 1980 model year being a key representation of this generation.