starter part # crossover

Does anyone know if any other starters from other kaw bikes will fit on mine? I need to replace it. I'm having trouble finding one. Part number is 21163-1031. Thanks

Here ya go.
1980-83 KZ 550 LTD, GPZ KZ550 KAWASAKI Starter Motor - Remanufactured Unit Comes With One Year Warranty !!!
Or cheaper yet! KAWASAKI STARTER KIT 1980-83 KZ 550 LTD, GPZ,KZ500


Just curious, why do you feel you need to replace your starter?
If it just spins and won't turn the motor over, or spins and catches periodically, that's usually the starter clutch. A completelty diff critter than the starter itself.

The starter catches occassionaly, it will work fine for a few starts and then won't catch for a few starts. I figured it was like a car starter and it was easier to replace the starter, what exactly is the starter clutch? thanks

Unlike an automobile starter, the geared shaft on our KZ starters isn't spring actuated to extend and mesh with the engine to turn it over, and that's where the starter clutch comes in.
I imagine the 550 is similar to the 650 since it's engine is loosely based on it, so the starter clutch should be located directly above the oil pump.
Exhaust and oil pan removal is required to be able to access it. So get yourself a manual, a rebuild kit, and set a weekend (or more if you're not familiar with motorcycles) aside to perform the repair.

If you do a search in the archives, you'll find quite a bit of info on exactely what you'll be in for.
In fact, OnkelB posted quite a great write up including pics when he rebuilt his starter clutch.

so its like this one then cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Kawasaki-KZ550-m...dZ1QQsspagenameZWD1V

crap that looks very internal lots to take apart LOL

del