'80 Kz1000G1

I'm new to this site so be kind. I'm not new to riding and working on motorcycles but most of my efforts have been on vee twins and Meridian Triumphs, so this is my first shot at a Kawasaki. I purchased a '80 Kz1000G1 that is very complete however also very neglected. I coated the inside of the gas tank, put on a new fuel filter, petcock, and plugs and started it up. It starts good and runs OK until it warms up then stumbles off idle, also pops through both mufflers. Took compression test, have low compression on cyls 2 & 3. I intend to do a top end on it. Haven't decided whether to try and keep the FI or convert to carbs. If carbs do I have to change heads or can I somehow use the FI head? Any help will be appreciated, thanks in advance.

First allow me to say welcome to KZR.

I'm sure that you can use your head with a set of carbs. It's a common swap.

Before you tear into the motor, I would suggest that you check your valve clearances. Tight valves can lead to lower compression. It won't cost anything but your time to check this.

Edit: I almost forgot, we need to see some pictures of your bike.

+1 on testarossa...and let me add these tidbits:

I counsel you to attempt to retain the FI...that bike with functioning FI is becoming fairly rare. The story being is that particular model is first generation mass-production FI for Kawasaki. As such there were a series of inherent problems and Kawasaki finally issued a shop bulletin specifying that if there are issues with the FI, replace with carbs. However, if you have a survivor w/functioning FI, keep it (my words). I would also recommend that you get the base manual for the KZ1000 and the supplemental manual specifically for your G model...Kawasaki part number 99963-0035-01 (you see them on eBay all the time). The supplemental manual, although short on pages -27- also has the wiring diagram (in B&W...it was never issued in color for some unknown reason) and a fair amount of discussion of the FI system.

Welcome to KZR.

Mcdroid, Thanks for the reply and your candor regarding my Kz1000G. When I went looking for a Kz for a winter project as the winters get long here in northern Mn, I wanted to build a street fighter, but this "G" showed up and I bought it. It is all original, has 38K miles and was very neglected. The FI is functioning but the bike does not run very well. I intend to try and keep the FI. I talked to Red Line Cycle and the have a lot of FI stuff if needed. I also have a Clymer manual the FI Supplement and colored wiring diagrams. I have cleaned the fuel system, changed engine oil & filter and installed new Dunlaps. Next week I will check the valve clearences as per Testarossa's suggestion, and go from there. Bear with me as I try and get use to this site, its a very good one. Thanks for the help. Dave

Testarossa, thanks for your reply and tips. I will check the valve clearances next week and go from there. Am still trying to get use to this site as this is new to me. Will try and put some pics on as soon as I can figure out how. This is a winter project for me as the winters get very long here in northern MN. I intend to try and keep the FI system but will need help. Thanks again for your reply. Dave

I'd suggest going to Radio Shack or any other electronic supply store and buy some "De-Oxit" contact cleaner/preservative. www.deoxit.com is their website.

It's pricey at $15 for a two pack, but it lasts a long time

I use it on the many and various electrical connectors and switches on my 1982 GPz1100 B2 model along with the cordless phone charging cradles and entertainment center patch cords.

Click the link for the picture posting tutorial: kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&...ew&catid=8&id=119144

Glad to hear that you are going to give the FI a go. I think the G models are cool. Good luck!