1980 KZ1000 tail light disassembly

I have a 1980 KZ I am restoring and need to clean up the tail light housing. Can anyone tell me how the sockets come apart? I have tried everything short of breaking them and I fear that will be next. Any information will be helpful.

You probably have to apply and let soak in penetrating oil, Kroil is what is recommended here.

Kroil is supposed to be best, but Liquid wrench penetrating spray lubricant did pretty good in a test that's floating around the internet. I've had good luck with the LW & I use other LW products.

ps: I've never removed the tail light socket, so I have no idea how it would come out or if it's supposed to.

On my 1980 it appears that it is crimped together. I don't think it comes apart.

eschultz wrote: I have a 1980 KZ I am restoring and need to clean up the tail light housing. Can anyone tell me how the sockets come apart? I have tried everything short of breaking them and I fear that will be next. Any information will be helpful.

If you are talking about the housing where the wires go into the light bulb socket, it might not be possible to disassemble without destroying it. My H2 has a tail light similar to the Z1. The tail light (not brake light) stopped working. I found a replacement made by Emgo that cost about $30. Way cheaper than buying NOS. Here's a link to the light I bought: www.nichecycle.com/ncs/categories/lighti...069-z-1-by-emgo.html

If you're talking about the male and female connectors, well nevermind.