Starter Woes

So I'm working on an 86' KZ1000 Police model and have been working on getting it started. As I'm trying to start it, it sounds like there is a loud racket coming from the starter area. It will turn the motor over some but possibly slips and sounds like metal in a blender (best way I can describe it). Is it common for starters to go out on these bikes? How hard is it to replace the starter and is the starter clutch integrated or external from the starter motor itself?

The problem could be the starter clutch. I don't know much about it, but if the starter motor is spinning, then the starter clutch seems like a possibility.

The starter clutch is mounted behind the generator. There is also a reduction gear between the starter and clutch. What you describe is often a sign that the clutch needs to be rebuilt or replaced. You really ought to have a factory service manual on hand before diving into this.

They are pretty tough units. You need to pull the cover to see what's going on.
Steve

Manual. I'm not certain on this, but I think the 81-83 KZ1000/1100 service manual can be used as the base manual for the KZ1000-P police models, then you'd need the 85 P5 supplement.

zedrider.co.uk --- various service & owner's manuals plus several wiring diagrams & parts lists
73 Z1, 81-83 KZ1000, ZR1100 Zephyr, et al
The same manual has been listed at the kz1000r.com site, but I couldn't seem to locate it the other day.

86 KAWASAKI KZ1000 P5 POLICE SHOP SUPPLEMENT

I don't know if your starter/clutch set-up on your 86' KZ1000 Police is like my 77' KZ1000A, but just did a complete rebuild and replacement of the generator on mine and works just fine now.