Target Audience:
Owners, DIY enthusiasts, mechanics, restorers of Kawasaki KZ500, KZ550, and ZX550 motorcycles.
Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair information at a fraction of dealership service costs. Offers a permanent, clean, and easily accessible resource compared to traditional paper manuals.
Content Quality:
High-quality photos, illustrations, and diagrams for clear understanding of procedures.
Availability:
Instant download for immediate access to repair information.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable).
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, CDI unit, spark plugs, coils, wiring.
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch operation, shift mechanism.
Drivetrain:
Final drive, shaft drive (if applicable), sprocket, chain maintenance.
Suspension:
Front forks (telescopic, cartridge types), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, linkage.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, brake pads, discs/drums.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, indicators, starter motor, horn.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, frame repairs, body panel removal/installation, seat, fairings (if applicable).
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire replacement, rim maintenance.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustments, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding charts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.
Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, carburetor rebuilding.
Restoration:
Guidance on refurbishing and restoring older models.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls, as used by professional technicians.
Engine Type Kz500 Kz550:
4-stroke, DOHC, Inline 4-cylinder (typically)
Engine Displacement Kz500:
498 cc (approximately)
Engine Displacement Kz550:
553 cc (approximately)
Engine Displacement Zx550:
553 cc (approximately - often associated with the GPz550 variant)
Horsepower Kz500 Kz550:
Varies by year and specific model, typically in the 50-60 HP range.
Torque Kz500 Kz550:
Varies by year and specific model.
Carburetion:
Multiple Carburetors (e.g., 4x Mikuni VM series, or TK carburetors depending on model and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank to carburetors, some models might have a fuel pump for higher performance variants.
Safety Features:
Focuses on mechanical safety and proper maintenance for safe operation. No electronic safety assists typically found in modern vehicles.
Braking System Type:
Front: Disc brake; Rear: Disc or Drum brake depending on model and year.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals, instrument cluster illumination.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights for turn signals, high beam, neutral, oil pressure, etc.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or common feature on these models.
Charging System:
Stator, rectifier/regulator, and battery provide the electrical power. Manual details testing and replacement of these components.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles (4,800-6,400 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Valve Clearance Check:
Usually at 6,000-12,000 mile intervals, critical for engine performance and longevity. Exact interval in manual.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Regularly, every 500-1000 miles (800-1600 km) or after washing/rain. Manual specifies slack.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil, API SG or higher. Specific viscosity based on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.4-3.0 liters (with filter change), depending on model variant. Manual specifies exact amount.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil Type:
Specific weight fork oil (e.g., SAE 10W, SAE 15W), quantity per fork leg detailed in manual.
Carburetor Sync And Cleaning:
Carburetors require periodic syncing and cleaning due to age and potential for fuel gumming. Manual provides detailed procedures.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and loose connections in the wiring harness can cause intermittent issues. Manual provides wiring diagrams for troubleshooting.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Some models may have automatic cam chain tensioners that can wear out, leading to rattling noises. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Fork Seals:
Aging fork seals are a common wear item, leading to oil leaks. Manual covers fork seal replacement.
Kawasaki Motorcycles:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long history of producing performance motorcycles, known for their inline-four engines and sporty designs.
Kz Series:
The KZ series represented Kawasaki's strong push into the sportbike and sport-touring market during the late 1970s and 1980s, evolving from earlier models with advancements in engine technology and chassis design.
Zx Series Introduction:
The ZX designation began to appear, signaling a move towards more aggressive, sport-focused designs, with the ZX550 often being a variant or precursor to the GPz lineup.
Production Period:
Models covered span from 1979 to 1986, a significant era for Japanese motorcycle development.