There is a rubber flap hanging down from the rear fender (sits between the rear wheel and engine). It has a tilt toward the belt and the rubber belt actually runs along it when the wheel spins. I didn't see anything in the owner's manual for it - any ideas? Is this thing necessary or can I take it out? I'll try to get a photograph later.
No eBay APP ID and/or Cert ID defined in Kunena configurationThe fender diagram at Partzilla for the 82 KZ440 Ltd Belt shows the fender flap & fender plate.
From the cross-reference there at partzilla the flap was used almost exclusively on belt drive models.
Kawasaki probably put it there for a reason, maybe to protect the belt or front pulley from road grit. ???
Since it seems crooked, I would try loosening the flap plate bolts & realign it. maybe put a light thread locker on the bolts.
If it can't be realigned, maybe trim the rubber or enlarge the bolt holes.
Just for comparison. here's a 440G rear inner fender w flap which is kind of chewed up.
Thanks Martin. Mine is chewed up too and I think it may just be due to the design (rubber on rubber wears after a while). This is why I was wondering if I can take it off to help preserve the belt. But if it helps protect the belt or front pulley I'll just keep it on.
Just an FYI for future repair. When the time comes to replace the belt, you can convert the 440 to chain drive & it's a direct swap. The only thing I'm not sure about is whether or not the chain/belt guards swap.
