kz440 petcock

So I just unwrapped my 1980 kz440 from storage for the last 2 months, and tried to start it, when to my surprise, the petcock was leaking all over the place! not a slow drip either, a full on drizzle. It seemed to be coming out of the adjustment dial itself, rather than from the seal between the petcock and the tank, nor was it coming from the fuel line. I am wondering if I can fix this or if I need a new petcock. I would prefer to keep this one since all the aftermarket ones I am seeing don't have the "Prime" function.

If you'd like to keep it stock then check out: www.z1enterprises.com/ItemDetails.aspx?i...um%29&item=KL18-2698

Jeff and company at Z1 will sell you a rebuild kit to replace the worn and degraded rubber bits. As for the after market parts and 'prime'. You petcock is vacuum operated. The prime goes around this and lets you fill the float bowls after the carbs are drained. If the aftermarket one isn't vacuum operated then it doesn't need a prime becasue fuel flows all the time - remember to turn it off after every ride!

Hope this helps.

The typical rebuild parts are still available from the dealer. Z1Enterprises.com can get them & they also have K&L rebuild kits. K&L parts are made in Japan & seem to be oem quality. I've never had a problem w any of their stuff.

Disassemble & clean the petcock. I used PineSol & hot hot water and scrubbed w a toothbrush. It's a good solvent & doesn't corrode the metal parts. Inspect the contact surfaces for pitting n stuff.