Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and experienced mechanics seeking dealer-level repair information.
Value Proposition:
Provides professional, high-quality technical repair guidance at a fraction of the cost of dealership service, with instant download accessibility.
Download Access:
Instant download after payment, no shipping fees or waiting.
Content Quality:
Made in high resolution with easy-to-read text, top-quality diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.
Format Flexibility:
Can be saved to hard-drive and burned to CD.
Covered Models:
Kawasaki KZ500, KZ550, ZX550
Covered Years:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but described as 'complete professional technical service and repair manual' with 'easy-to-read text sections with top quality diagrams and instructions'.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Instant Download)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, carburetor, cooling system (if applicable), exhaust system.
Clutch:
Clutch operation, maintenance, removal, installation, and adjustments.
Transmission:
Gearbox operation, maintenance, removal, installation, and component details.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel lines, and carburetor systems.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, and related components.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, charging system, starting system, electronic components.
Wheels Tires Brakes:
Wheel and tire maintenance, brake system service (hydraulic and mechanical), brake component replacement.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks and rear shock absorbers), steering, bearings.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams are included, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical system faults.
Maintenance:
Periodic maintenance, lubrication, tune-up procedures, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Tune Up:
Detailed procedures for engine tune-ups, including spark plugs, carburetor adjustments, and timing.
Engine Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed steps for complete engine teardown, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, valves, crankshaft), and reassembly.
Carburetor Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling carburetors, including float bowl adjustments and jet replacement.
Suspension Adjustment And Overhaul:
Covers fork oil changes, seal replacement, and adjustment procedures for rear shock absorbers.
Brake System Service:
Includes bleeding procedures, pad/shoe replacement, caliper/master cylinder overhaul, and brake line inspection/replacement.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Information on tire pressure, wear inspection, and potentially wheel bearing maintenance.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and troubleshooting to complete engine and component overhauls, suitable for DIYers and professional mechanics.
Diagnostic Charts:
Likely includes detailed troubleshooting charts that correlate symptoms with potential causes and solutions.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle, ensuring correct assembly and preventing damage.
Special Tools:
May list or illustrate specific special tools required for certain procedures, aiding in accurate repairs.
Engine Type:
The manual covers various configurations of Kawasaki's parallel-twin engines used in the KZ500, KZ550, and ZX550 models. Specific engine displacements are typically 498cc for KZ500 and 550cc for KZ550/ZX550.
Typical Horsepower:
KZ500 models often produced around 50-52 hp. KZ550/ZX550 models generally produced around 58-65 hp, depending on the specific variant and tuning.
Carburetion:
Primarily dual or quad Mikuni VM or CV (Constant Velocity) carburetors. Detailed specifications for jetting, float levels, and synchronization will be included.
Ignition Type:
Typically breaker-point ignition for earlier models, transitioning to electronic ignition (CDI - Capacitor Discharge Ignition) for later variants.
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Specific recommendations will be in the manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 6,000-8,000 miles for tune-up, with replacement intervals as needed based on wear.
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Regular inspection and cleaning (e.g., every 3,000 miles), replacement as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 motorcycle-specific oil is commonly recommended. Specific viscosity and API classification will be detailed in the manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid for the front disc brake system.
Fork Oil Type:
Specific viscosity (e.g., 10W) and quantity for front forks will be detailed. Brands like Showa or KYB suspension fluid would be relevant.
Carburetor Issues:
Common issues include clogged jets, diaphragm wear, and synchronization problems due to age and fuel quality.
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on connectors, stator/rotor issues, and rectifier/regulator failures can occur with age.
Suspension Wear:
Fork seals can leak, and rear shock absorbers may lose damping effectiveness over time.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Some Kawasaki models of this era can develop a noisy cam chain tensioner; manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Kawasaki Motorcycle History:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance motorcycles, particularly in the sportbike and standard categories. The 'KZ' series was pivotal in establishing their presence in the U.S. market during the 1970s and 80s.
Kz500 To Kz550 Transition:
The KZ500 was an earlier iteration, often seen as a precursor to the more refined and powerful KZ550. The KZ550 introduced improvements in engine performance, chassis dynamics, and often styling, with the ZX550 representing a sportier variant, often featuring more advanced suspension or braking components for its time.
Manufacturing Period:
1979-1985, reflecting the core production years for these specific models covered by the manual.