starting problem 78 kz 1000

wiring was messed up on my 78 kz 1000 trying to follow wiring - got most of it done -put in a new batt turn ignition key on will not start by switch -ran a jumper from pos to starter sol turns slow and wire heats up red hot - trying to test everything -pulling my hair any help is apprec.

Simple but... were you holding the clutch in when trying the electric start?

Bike is out of gear -thus no clutch hooked up

I don't remember when Kawasaki put the clutch lever interlock switch on the bikes, but the ones from the 80's did have this switch. To start them, turn on the petcock,adjust the choke lever, turn on the ignition, squeeze the clutch lever,& press the start button. If everything is working, the engine should light off(start running) and settle down to idle(1000-1100 rpm).

MFolks wrote: I don't remember when Kawasaki put the clutch lever interlock switch on the bikes, but the ones from the 80's did have this switch. To start them, turn on the petcock,adjust the choke lever, turn on the ignition, squeeze the clutch lever,& press the start button. If everything is working, the engine should light off(start running) and settle down to idle(1000-1100 rpm).

Ha ha... that switch sure fooled me. When I went to pick up my KZ1100 Ltd I couldn't get the beast started. I'd have been there all night if the owners son hadn't come along and told me to pull the clutch in. Embarrassed... :blush:

bill2658 wrote: Bike is out of gear -thus no clutch hooked up

Not to beat a dead horse but my 78 kz1000 wont electric start even in neutral without the clutch engaged.

KraZy Chris wrote:

bill2658 wrote: Bike is out of gear -thus no clutch hooked up

Not to beat a dead horse but my 78 kz1000 wont electric start even in neutral without the clutch engaged.

Mine starts fine without pulling the clutch in.

andy9802gt wrote:

KraZy Chris wrote:

bill2658 wrote: Bike is out of gear -thus no clutch hooked up

Not to beat a dead horse but my 78 kz1000 wont electric start even in neutral without the clutch engaged.

Mine starts fine without pulling the clutch in.

If your electric starter works without pulling in the clutch someone has bypassed the switch (see #10 in 1978 KZ1000-LTD diagram below). Normally you absolutely must pull in the clutch to activate the electric starter. Ed

I'll hook the clutch back up and give it a try thanks