TOPIC:

Hey guys, got an '83 Kawi kz 750 ltd shaft drive that I'm working on bringing into the modern era. This is my first build and I'm not sure what I need to do for the shaft drive. Any advice on how to clean/maintain it would be greatly appreciated! Heard something about changing the oil on it?

Thanks,

Fish

You should get the correct manual for the motorcycle -- the 750 Ltd shaft should be the KZ750-F1.
Search eebbaayy for KZ750 shaft manual & get one that covers thru at least 1983. there are several listed.
Kawasaki service manuals have a model application chart on the back cover, so make sure your bike is on the list.
Some sellers include a photo of the chart.

The owner's manual has some service information, including the oil change info. Some new KZ owners don't realize the om is kinda hidden in a pull-down document case under the seat. There is a chain drive pdf linked here in various replies on KZR. Search for 750Turbo.com manual. Some of the service data for the shaft drive models is probably the same as the chain drive, such as the oil change, but you really should get the correct manual.

Yup, get a factory service manual and do all the maintenance as described. Things like adjusting the valves are critical to the long term durability of the bike. Gear oil in the rear end and secondary reduction gearboxs should be listed.

Definitely get a fsm.
On my Concours, I changed the final drive fluid and lubricated the shaft splines (both ends) every time I replaced the rear tire. That is more often than necessary, but it was easy to remember.
I used full synthetic gear oil and on the splines I used the shaft spline grease sold at Honda dealerships.

thank you. This is the unfortunate advice I know is necessary but man they are quite expensive. My Clymer manual has worked pretty well for everything else and was bought at a fraction of the price.

I did not know there was a 750-4 shaft clymer. ???
As already noted -->> eb search = KZ750 shaft manual.
There are several listed & at least one is cheap. $18 + $5 shipping. that's cheap.

First build. not sure what you mean. the bike in your pic looks to be in very good condition. it would be a shame to hack it up & spray-bomb the whole thing flat black or whatnot. I would do all of the basic periodic maintenance & lubrication, maybe change the handlebars if they're uncomfortable, then ride it. changing the bars can be a job in & of itself -->> bars, grips, Fr turn signals, cables, Fr br mc, & mirrors.

"Build" was for lack of better terms. It's pretty stripped down but it will be built up to look pretty similar to the original. Changing the bars/grips/controls, etc. Switching some things around to bring it into the modern era. Keeping the tank and side covers. New headlights and speedometer. Trimming the seat down and upholstering it. Should be a tasteful "build". Not big on the flat black look. So 2005

I guess I'm one of the few around who doesn't mind the Ltd type seats. They do have a practical purpose in that the stepped shape helps to keep your rear end planted when twisting the right grip to WOT. Ltds kinda look weird without the stock type seat, but of course that's just an opinion.

Yup, Just a matter of preference. Some like the bigger stock seat but it's not for me.

Any idea where to find decent coils?? Mine are no good.

Z1Enterprises, and Z1 Parts have a number of maintenance items.
Links on the site here.
www.z1enterprises.com/?source=google&gcl...SUycsCFZSCaQodizQAJQ

Custom parts/seats:
www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php

I appreciate the help. Unfortunately I'm very green to this and do not know which coils will fit well with my bike. Some of the Dyno's look good but they don't seem to have any secondary ports. Any recommendations?

Secondary ports?
You can call Z1E and they will sell you the correct coils. The resistance is what matters most.