1976 KZ750 starting problems

Ok to start off it’s a 1976 KZ750

Traded a pistol for it ($300)

I was told it needed a battery I got it off my buddy. So I got a battery and hooked it up. And nothing happens. My lights come on but that’s all.

The electric start doesn’t do nothing doesn’t even make a sound.

The kick start just acts like it wants to turn over but nothing happens.

I’m new to the motorcycle world and I have no idea what is happening.

I know the plugs are wet, fuel lines work. Battery is right at 13 when I checked it. But nothing happens and I have no idea where to start.

Hello and welcome MSSJ17

Some pics of your bike would help to make an overview of your bike condition.
It is very difficult to do a remote diagnostic without pics.
I think you have traded a 750/twin for your pistol.
A lot of reading is necessary to understand the motorcycle technic

kzrider.com/modules/ServiceManuals/Kawas...l%20KZ750%20Twin.pdf

Michael

I’m sorry here are some pictures.

Are you pulling in and holding in the clutch lever when trying to use the electric starter? Ed

Yes I’m holding in the clutch when trying to use the electric start.

The gas is on, the ignition is on, the clutch lever is held in and nothing I push the button and it does nothing

First, I saw another thread on this. Please don't do that. It will be easier for all concerned if the whole conversation is in one place.
You really need a genuine Kawasaki factory service manual (fsm). Not Haynes, not Clymer, the real deal. Among other things, it has some good diagnostic procedures in it. For this problem, you should also have a volt/Ohm/amp meter. You can find really inexpensive ones at auto parts stores, Lowes, Ace, et cetera.

When you turn the ignition key on, do lights come on?

Have you checked to insure that the battery cables have good, clean connections at both ends?

Especially check where the negative battery cable attaches to the frame or engine.

Test the fuses. Looking at them can be deceiving as one end of the link can come loose inside where you cannot see. Forty year old solder can get brittle.

A solder connection may have come loose inside the starter switch.

A solder connection inside the ignition switch may have broken loose.

The starter solenoid may be bad, or may not be getting power from the starter switch. That vOa meter will be really handy.

There are more possibilities, but this list should get you on the road to a solution.

When I turn the key on the ignition the lights do come on but that’s all. And the ground seems fine and the positive looks good. I haven’t checked the starter relay yet.
Also the fuses all check out good.

check the starter relay

early model 76-78



later model 79-82

and here comes the wiring diagrams

It being a pre 80 would it not have points and condenser

Yes it does have points and condenser. As said before, you really need a factory service manual. Get one and read through it.

Any update?