How to remove and put in a new petcock?

So, I'm kind of a newby, but this seems like something I should be able to handle on my own as opposed to taking in to the shop and paying $85 an hour for labor. I've got a leaky petcock. I just bought a new one off ebay that was originally made for the 69-74 Honda CB750 (I was told that these were compatible with my 75 KZ400). I've been searching around online, but I can't find anything that tells me step by step how to remove the old petcock and put in the new one. Does anyone know of a place that could give me step by step directions, or could any of you guys help me out with this?

Thanks a ton!! :woohoo:

Best thing to do is buy a service manual it will explain in detail how to repair everything on your bike.

The process is fairly simple and you can do it yourself. You may smell like gas at the end, but then you can make those clothes your garage clothes.

First unhook the hoses from the petcock (you may want to use tape to identify what hose is which if you have a vaccume operated petcock), lift up you seat, then pull up on the back end of the gas tank.This will detach the gas tank from the frame. Do not drop it. Have a place ready to set it down.

Drain the gas out of the tank.

Then remove the 2 bolts securing the petcock to the gas tank. There will be a mesh screen that comes out that prevets dirt and derbis from getting into the carbs.

Then install the new petcock using the same method as stated above in the reverse order.

I hope this infor helps.

I am not familiar with the KZ400, but I would add to remove the tank vent hose and disconnect the fuel gauge to what is accurately stated by Kool Ryder above.

400, not familiar w/your 400, but am intimate w/cb750's. from 69 thru 76 petcock was a spigot mount, petcock mount was rh thread at tank, lh at cock. with a sealing washer between. differences for application are gross. luck G

You can download in sections a workshop manual here
www.kz400.com/index.html

A great site which used to be run by a real gentleman who was a member here before he passed away

Like the guys above said, you will need to disconnect the hoses, drain the gastank, lift the seat, figure out how to remove the tank which may have a retaining bolt at the back or have some kind of bungee straps. There are only two or three ways the petcock will go on. Either threaded into the tank or held in with 2 screws. This should be an easy job. You can do this and save $85 an hour

Good luck

I think you guys got it all wrong... First you have to unzip it then pull it out. Putting it back in just follow the reverse.:laugh:

I believe that model come with a collar and/or leash

Thanks for all the advice! I should be able to handle it with the info that you guys gave me. I'm just waiting on the part now.

Thanks again, this website is such a great resource!!

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Just got the new petcock yesterday and put it in today. I'm kind of embarrassed that I even asked how to do it. It took all of about 20 minutes! The Honda petcock works great! No more leaking!!!! :woohoo:

A Honda petcock in a KZ?? Now you're going to have to buy your gas at a Honda dealership.