Target Audience:
Professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY mechanics
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information for a comprehensive understanding of the Kawasaki KZ500, KZ550, and ZX550 models.
Comparison To Paper Manuals:
Offers the same depth of information as traditional paper manuals, with the added benefit of instant accessibility and digital searchability.
Feature 1:
Step-by-step repair procedures
Feature 2:
Critical technical specifications
Feature 3:
Illustrations and diagrams
Feature 4:
Maintenance and repair guidance
Feature 5:
Disassembly and assembly procedures
Feature 6:
Cleaning and reinstallation instructions
Feature 7:
Troubleshooting and diagnostics
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all internal components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing, etc.)
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning, cleaning, rebuilding, fuel pump operation, fuel tank maintenance, fuel line routing
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, CDI unit testing and replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, starter clutch), lighting, instrumentation, battery service
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, and repair; clutch operation, adjustment, and replacement; shift mechanism
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear shock absorber service and adjustment, linkage maintenance
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, hydraulic system bleeding, pad and caliper service, disc inspection
Cooling System:
Radiator service, coolant replacement, fan operation (for ZX550 GPz models)
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat, fuel tank mounting, fairings (GPz models)
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire pressure recommendations, rim inspection
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe inspection, muffler maintenance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks, lubrication points, filter replacement, fluid changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems (e.g., starting issues, engine misfires, electrical faults)
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing worn or damaged components, rebuilding sub-assemblies
Disassembly:
Detailed guidance on taking apart various vehicle systems and components
Assembly:
Reassembly instructions ensuring correct order and torque specifications
Cleaning:
Procedures for cleaning specific components, such as carburetors and engine parts
Reinstalling:
Guidance on correctly reinstalling serviced or replaced components
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting flowcharts for identifying and resolving issues.
Rebuild Capability:
Provides detailed instructions for complete engine and component rebuilding.
Kz500 Engine Type:
4-stroke, DOHC, inline-4 cylinder
Kz500 Displacement:
498 cc
Kz500 Bore X Stroke:
60.0 x 44.0 mm
Kz550 Engine Type:
4-stroke, DOHC, inline-4 cylinder
Kz550 Displacement:
553 cc
Kz550 Bore X Stroke:
61.0 x 49.0 mm
Zx550 Engine Type:
4-stroke, DOHC, inline-4 cylinder (GPz550 styling)
Zx550 Displacement:
553 cc
Zx550 Bore X Stroke:
61.0 x 49.0 mm
Kz500 Horsepower:
Approximately 50-55 HP (varies by market and tuning)
Kz550 Horsepower:
Approximately 55-60 HP (varies by market and tuning)
Carburetors:
Likely Mikuni VM series or similar, dual or quad carburetors depending on model variant.
Fuel Capacity:
Refer to specific model variant specifications in manual (typically 16-19 liters)
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time intervals (typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months)
Spark Plug Check:
Refer to manual for specific intervals (e.g., every 6,000-8,000 miles)
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-40, API SF or SG classification recommended).
Fork Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific type and viscosity (e.g., Showa SS-01, SAE 10W).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid recommended.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (for GPz models with radiators).
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Wear or failure of the cam chain tensioner can lead to rattling noises and potential engine damage. Manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Carburetors require periodic synchronization for smooth engine operation. Manual covers the procedure.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections in the electrical system can cause intermittent faults. Manual provides wiring diagrams for diagnosis.
Fork Seals:
Front fork seals can degrade over time, leading to oil leaks. Manual details seal replacement.
Kawasaki Motorcycles:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance and reliable motorcycles across various categories.
Kz Series:
The KZ series was a dominant force in the motorcycle market during the late 70s and early 80s, known for their inline-four engines and performance. The KZ500/550 represented a refinement and evolution of this platform.
Zx Series Gpz:
The ZX designation, particularly with the GPz prefix, signified Kawasaki's foray into sportbike technology, often featuring aerodynamic fairings and improved performance. The ZX550 (GPz550) brought this styling to the 550cc class.
Production Period:
The 500cc and 550cc KZ/ZX models were produced through the mid-to-late 1980s.