1981 GPZ1100 Ignition won't turn.

The key will not turn.  The steering lock is disengaged (not locked) but the key won't turn.  I have done all of the usual stuff, wiggled, lubed with both graphite (first) then brake cleaner and then wet lube.  Won't tun at all.  I ordered a new switch that all of the sites claim is the one...but it is not.  This one is different.  I found the Kawasaki OEM number but it isn't available anywhere anymore and even if it was, it's $350-500!
This is the one I need.  Any ideas? Or would anyone happen to have one with key(s)? 

If the problem is in the lock, a locksmith should be able to fix it.

Are you able to find the four digit key code (usually starting with “Z” on the GPzs if I recall correctly). It will be stamped on the ignition switch assy in a place that wouldn’t be visible when it is installed on the bike. My guess is that you don’t have the correct key is all. Once you have the code you can order a replacement key. There are a few vendors out there (including RSTNICK on this forum) who can make a replacement based on just that info. 

I feel bad for noticing this, but I did 

 

The below "how to" I posted a few years back might be helpful

82 J,K &M ign barrel removal - KZRider Forum - KZRider, KZ, Z1 & Z Motorcycle Enthusiast's Forum

NERDY....Me too...lol.  I should have included that this key DID work, as I was able to fire it up when I purchased it.  The person I bought it from told me that the key was "finnicky".  But was able to start it up a couple of times but now it won't turn at all.

Wookie....THANKS!  Will be doing that tonight or tomorrow.

clagrow68 wrote:

NERDY....Me too...lol.  I should have included that this key DID work, as I was able to fire it up when I purchased it.  The person I bought it from told me that the key was "finnicky".  But was able to start it up a couple of times but now it won't turn at all.
 

I hoped you would realize I wasn't being a jerk, and you did - thank you.   

A year or two ago I bought a set of gauges for an old Yamaha, including the lock and ignition key. It arrived and I fiddled with it for a while: the key would turn but it wasn't happy about it. I pulled the key out and it said Honda. 

Wookie, In your tutorial  You mentioned looking up in there and pushing the wafer toward the middle to slide the actual barrel out I've got it completely torn down but do not see any wafer to pull that out.

This one releases the barrel from the housing (key needs to be in when you pull the barrel and the chrome cap also needs to be removed from the barrel (don't lose the flap and spring)

Looks like I edited your post instead of "quoting" 

possible solutions. these are similar in appearance. the terminal pins may need to be replaced with correct size. 
KZ1000-J2 Ignition lock source. has link to another site w photos. kzrider.com/forum/forum-index/4-electric...ignition-lock-source
KZ1000K LTD. VN750 ignition switch.  www.kzrider.com/forum/4-electrical/61386...n-1981-82-kz1000-ltd

H1Vindicator wrote:

possible solutions. these are similar in appearance. the terminal pins may need to be replaced with correct size. 
KZ1000-J2 Ignition lock source. has link to another site w photos. kzrider.com/forum/forum-index/4-electric...ignition-lock-source
KZ1000K LTD. VN750 ignition switch.  www.kzrider.com/forum/4-electrical/61386...n-1981-82-kz1000-ltd

Simply cleaning out the old hardened grease and road dirt is all it usually requires (about an hours work and no cost)