idle problem

I have a 1979 KZ1000 ST it hasn't run in probably 15 years I pulled it out of my uncles garage and

and did some work to get it running it starts up but it wont idle I can keep it reved up if im on the

throttle but when I let off the RPM drop and it stops running what could be the issue?

jer09521 wrote: I have a 1979 KZ1000 ST it hasn't run in probably 15 years I pulled it out of my uncles garage and did some work to get it running it starts up but it wont idle I can keep it reved up if im on the throttle but when I let off the RPM drop and it stops running what could be the issue?

One likely suspect would be obstructed carb pilot circuits.
Or perhaps the idle speed is set too low.
What's the least rpm that allows steady running without dying?
Have basic engine maintenance services been performed?

Good Fortune!

the bike wont idle I have to stay on the throttle just to keep it at 1000 rpm or more.

and I did change the oil and put in a new battery and spark plugs. is that what your asking about the engine maintenance

where would the idle screw be on the carbs?

The idle screw should be a fairly large thumbwheel sticking out of the back of the carbs near the top of them. Look for it from the right hand side of the bike. Ed

On some models, the idle adjustment screw is accessed from the bottom of the carbs.





Good Fortune!

Oooops! Sorry about my bum advice in previous post - I was basing it my carbs which are different. :blush: Ed

Hey, Ed -- No telling what was done to the bike during the 20 years before stored in uncle's garage.
When belatedly informed that the carbs at hand are smoothbores, or 26's from a KZ900 or '77 KZ1000, it'll all be okay. :lol:





Good Fortune!

thanks guys for the advice I thought that knob was for something else didn't realize how simple it

actually was.

and could that possibly be the reason it not holding an idle ?

jer09521 wrote: ...and could that possibly be the reason it not holding an idle ?

Won't take but a second to find out, by simply screwing the adjuster knob clockwise.

But in the case at hand, would suspect obstructed carb pilot circuits, which is a common condition that results from storing a bike without draining the carbs. The gasoline evaporates and leaves a nasty residue. :pinch:

Where the obstruction is minimal, it sometimes helps to add SeaFoam or other cleaning agent to the fuel inside the fuel tank, and ride a hundred or so miles, in hopes that the carb pilot circuits will get cleaner.

The best remedy is a competent and thorough carb cleaning, where the carbs are removed and partially disassembled on the workbench, with special attention devoted to the pilot circuits.

Other maintenance chores will include assuring valve clearances being within specs, and checking for correct ignition timing, proper function of the timing advancer, good spark quality at the spark plugs, and fitting an aftermarket in-line fuel filter to assure clean fuel supply into carbs.

A Factory Service Manual for the specific bike at hand is a mandatory prerequisite in order to maintain and enjoy a satisfactorily performing bike. Without the manual, it's fighting a losing battle.

Good Fortune!

I think it may be obstructed carb pilot circuits like you said I tried messing with the idle screw and

it didn't help.

so where might one find a cheap manual if not free pdf online?



and thanks Patton I really appreciate the help your giving me

and Patton in the picture of the idle screw down on the bottom what kind of carbs is that because that

is just like mine and I don't know how to identify what carbs I have

jer09521 wrote: and Patton in the picture of the idle screw down on the bottom what kind of carbs is that because that is just like mine and I don't know how to identify what carbs I have

Mikuni VM28SS (26mm bore with manual slide) on stock 1978 KZ1000-A3 (Mark II chain drive) and stock KZ1000-D2 (Z1R-II cafe racer).

Picture is from the official Kawasaki KZ1000 Motorcycle Service Manual covering 1977 KZ1000-A1, 1978 KZ1000-A2, 1979 KZ1000-A3 (A1, A2 and A3 being standard models) and 1978 KZ1000-D1 and 1979 KZ1000-D2 (D1 and D2 being cafe racer models).

This particular manual doesn't include information about the 1979 shaft drive KZ1000-E1 model, which I believe has its own separate manual.

There's a link in my signature for help with navigating kawasaki.com and seeing parts diagrams and other information pertaining to the KZ1000-E1. Also see KZrider FILEBASE link at top right of screen.

Good Fortune!