how to check rod issues on kz1000d z1r?

Hi ,is there a way to check crankshafts that are for sale to determine if the crank has (spun a rod) , i am learning that people weld there cranks to prevent this, for racing or for hard street use are there any tell tale signs in a engine that runs? , i know if the damage is severe engine wont run well or not ? ebay and other sources have alot of cranks out there for sale , with out testing or measuring bearing runout is there any help you guys can give me ? all of your help and input is always awesome and why i like this forum. mike

You can turn the crank until all 4 wrist pin ends of the rods align. Then run an appropriate sized (not too loose) piece of pipe through them. The pipe should slip through all 4. If not, it indicates that one or more of the the throws on the crankshaft has shifted. Ed

Crankshafts are 40 plus years old the only proper way to know is to completely disassemble then and check them over or purchase new if you can find them I have 1 NOS 'J" model crank still in the box.

You can check the side play with a feeler gauge. Like above, you can put a rod through the wrist pin bosses to see if it"s shifted. It's a crap shoot no matter the price high or low.
Steve

The Factory service manual has several pages on how to check a crank. Unfortunately it's not something you could do from an EBay ad. I guess you could ask the seller to guarantee the crank meets spec and offer a 30 day return if you find it to be bad. Welded cranks are not to prevent spun bearings. It prevents the cranks pressed fittings from twisting. What year is your Z1R? The 1978/79 D1/2 were the KZ engine. 1980 D3 changed to the MKII engine. I know crank bearing supports were different in the MKII. I'm not sure if the Cranks are interchangeable.

The bike is a 78 kz1000d1 model, all the info sofar is great , keep all the great advice coming it is awesome and very helpful, you cant put a value on knowledge or wisdom!!!! your :whistle: fellow kz and triple owner, kawi mike!!