Target Audience:
Primarily professional technicians, but also suitable for serious do-it-yourself mechanics with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.
Content Comparison:
Covers topics typically found in factory service manuals and owner's manuals, offering a holistic approach to vehicle care.
Learning Method:
Step-by-step guidance designed to impart factory-trained technician knowledge.
Market Segment:
Mid-displacement sport/standard motorcycles of the early 1980s, competing with models from Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki.
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, tuning, lubrication, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, adjustment, cleaning, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable).
Ignition System:
CDI ignition, spark plugs, coils, timing adjustment.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, chain drive maintenance, lubrication.
Brake System:
Front and rear brake inspection, pad/shoe replacement, fluid bleeding, caliper/master cylinder service.
Suspension System:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber inspection, adjustments.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator/stator), lighting, starter motor, fuses.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, seat removal, handlebar maintenance, body panel adjustments.
Wheel And Tire:
Tire inspection, wheel bearing service, spoke tension adjustment (if applicable).
Exhaust System:
Inspection and maintenance of the exhaust pipes and mufflers.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular service checks, lubrication points, filter replacement, chain adjustment, valve clearance checks.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for engine rebuilds, carburetor overhaul, brake caliper repair, electrical component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, fault finding techniques, symptom-based solutions.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for component removal and reinstallation with torque specifications.
Diagnostic Charts:
Includes detailed charts for diagnosing performance issues, electrical faults, and starting problems.
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Contains numerous diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations to guide repair procedures.
Depth:
Professional level, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and component overhauls. Suitable for experienced DIYers and professional technicians.
Scope:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance for the specified models and year.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 4-stroke
Kz500 Displacement:
498 cc (30.4 cu in)
Kz550 Displacement:
553 cc (33.7 cu in)
Kz500 Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 48-52 hp @ 9000 rpm (varies by tune)
Kz550 Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 52-56 hp @ 8500 rpm (varies by tune)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni carburetors (e.g., VM26SS or similar)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approximately 3.4 L (3.6 US qt)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-40 or 20W-50, API SE, SF, SG rated oil
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline-four
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled (typically)
Ignition Type:
Transistorized Ignition (T.I.) / Capacitive Discharge Ignition (CDI)
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 km (1,800 miles) or 6 months.
Valve Clearance Check Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,600 miles) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
As needed, typically every 10,000-12,000 km (6,000-7,500 miles).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
If liquid-cooled (some ZX550 variants), use a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Fork Oil Type Kz500 Kz550:
Kawasaki Suspension Oil (or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil)
Fork Oil Quantity Per Leg:
Approximately 160-180 ml (varies by fork type)
Carburetor Cleaning:
Carburetors can become gummed up with age, leading to rough idling and poor performance. Regular cleaning and synchronization are recommended.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion in wiring connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues. Inspection and cleaning are beneficial.
Chain And Sprockets:
Wear on the drive chain and sprockets is normal; proper lubrication and adjustment are crucial to longevity.
Maintenance Schedule Overview
Schedule Detail:
The manual provides a detailed maintenance schedule covering daily checks, periodic inspections, and major service intervals.