Newbie with '76 KZ900 "project"

[zarco]

Just found this forum and want to introduce myeslf. I'm a newbie to motorcycles having just purchased my very first project bike (KZ900). I have had a KZ440 belt drive for years as well but have never really driven it much.

I'm one of those guys that enjoy pulling wrenches, and buying something that others are ready to junk, and fix it up. Lotsa fun IMO. The KZ900 is exactly what I was looking for....spoke wheels, kick start (as well as
electric), and it should be a good cruser when it done.

The bad news is its missing some parts (seat, all of the engine covers, alternator, etc). The engine also only turns 180 degrees before going 'clunk' (metal to metal in the bottom end). Finally figured out how to get the carbs out, and should have the motor out today to see how bad it is. If its shot, folks here will have a chance to get parts to fix up their bikes!

[bikeaholic]

welcome zarco

great bike - that thing was the shiznit back in the day

good luck on the resto

[forest1000]

Try this site:

http://www.americanclassix.com/home.html

They might be able to help.

[kyhick1]

Zarco,

Welcome to the forum. Hope it is salvagable. Send us a photo of you and your bikes.!!!!! I love the older bikes.....will need a shed to put them all in at my house if I keep seeing good deals.

Have fun tinkering

Heather

[Nate]

Another site you might want to check out is http://kzrider.com. There are a lot of knowledgable KZ 900 folks over there. A loud clunk doesn't sound promising, though.

- Nate >>

[redhot]

Also try Old Bike Barn for parts

Good selection

[wiredgeorge]

Suggest you try www.z1enterprises.com for your KZ900 parts. They have the best selection, prices and customer service. As far as your engine being locked, if you haven't taken the head off, you may have bent valves. This comes from someone setting the wrong valve chain timing generally or the chain just jumping because it had too much slack or was worn out. The crank COULD be bent as well. It isn't as likely as the KZ900 crank is pretty sturdy. I would index the crankshaft. I use a blank 17mm drill bit which is basically a long 17mm diameter rod (very precise). You fit it in your wrist pin holes and if it goes through all four holes, the crank is straight.