Side panel paint question

I want to repaint the side covers but it has the original badges on them and I do not know how to how to remove them for paint without breaking the back tabs. They are in such good shape. Any thoughts?

You'll have to cut them off, otherwise the emblem studs will get mangled. don't ask how I know. doh.
The best way to remove the little push-lock nuts is to cut them off with a dremel. or score them with a dremel,
then pry with a 6-in-1 painters tool or something similar like a putty knife or real thin screwdriver. mine crumbled.

Some hardware stores have virtually identical push nuts, but you can also use little thread cutting nuts. or you can cut threads on the posts & use nylon nuts or locknuts with the plastic inserts (credit to Skyman). I did that & added a small dollop of silicone caulk.

No eBay APP ID and/or Cert ID defined in Kunena configurationWhen I replaced emblems on my KZ650 I cut those little speed nuts with a Dremel and replaced them with new ones. I suspect yours are like mine which are 3mm speed nuts, or as Kawasaki calls the lock nuts. They are part number 92018-005. There are plenty on eBay if the dealer can't order them. See:



Ed

Thank you both. That helps alot.i have work with types of nut on car emblems and always had trouble with them snapping off.

The hardware store may have 1/8" push-lock nuts similar to stock. 1/8" = 3.175 mm
probably sold in 2 or 4 packs for less than a dollar.

I think I have seen those at the hardware store. As you said in 1/8" size

More than 20 years ago I had a painter pry them off my side panels and broke every stud. I can't believe he didn't stop after breaking the first one. He told me to use body tape to put them on. My bike hasn't had side badges since. Sad.

I use automotive 2 sided emblem tape on the back side when reinstalling the emblem. This ensures the emblem won't fall off, even if the push lock nuts are weak. If you ever need to remove the emblem, hook a piece of monofilament fishing line under the emblem edge and pull it back and forth like a saw. This will cut the tape with no damage to the panel or emblem.

You can use a small set of dykes to cut the original clips.

Thank you for all the great advise . Maybe I can get the dremel I have been looking at.