TOPIC:

So I am going to be pulling apart a 81 kz550 engine, is there anything I should look out for? Things I should do while I am inside of it? The motor last ran in the 90s when it was retired for a knock somewhere inside. IIRC my step dad said it was loud at idle. Started after he started speed shifting. But I am going to pull the engine and trans apart. Is there anything to bulletproof this engine? I know about the cam chain tensioner (thanks LoudHVX) Is it worth swapping to a manual? Thanks
Andrew

Starter clutch should be checked closely and crank bearings. Spinning rod bearings is not unheard of with the 550's. Hopefully you won't find any carnage inside.

that is my hope, I am planning on using the engine for a frankenbike here in the future and want it to be as sound as can be. Also, do you have any recomendations when it comes to rebuild oils? I am thinking I should call up my local Lucas dealer and see what they have. Thanks again
Andrew

Rebuild oil? Don't you think you are getting ahead of yourself some?

Shell Rotella is what I recommend. Run the bike for a few hundred miles then torque the head again. Only use OEM Kawasaki gaskets. Some people dump the oil after a few hundred miles but I don't think it's necessary. That's what the filter is for.

keeping my hopes up high and my head down low even if it doesn't work out in the end it is still a great learning experience for my 16 yr old brother on how an engine works and how a bigger motor goes together