Kickstart on 1975 kz400

I have a 1975 kz400 im begining to build into a bobber. Im wondering if it is at all possible if i make it a kickstart only bike? If so how do i do so? Do i need a different magneto or stator? Any info is helpful thanks,kevin

Um, keep your thumb off the Start button and you have kickstart only.

:woohoo:

If you really want to ditch the electrical starter, you will need to disconnect the battery, remove the starter cover and the engine side cover. As I recall, there are four bolts an one wire holding the starter motor in place. To remove the chain that connects the starter motor to the starter clutch, I believe the generator will have to be removed from the end of the crankshaft, since I don't think there is enough room to get it off otherwise. If you want to remove the clutch, the generator will definitely have to come out.
The starter solenoid and the cable that connects it to the starter motor come out easily. You may be able to find switchgear from a kickstart model to replace the unsightly button.
If you go through with this, I recommend that you keep all these parts together in a box until you are absolutely sure you don't want them. Then you can sell them to someone who appreciates their value.

As for special tools, you will need some JIS screwdrivers (or suitably modified Philips), and you will likely need an impact wrench to get the generator off. The most important tool is a genuine Kawasaki factory service manual. It will save you a great deal of time, money and frustration.

By kick starter only I think he means he wants to eliminate the battery, and I think that might depend upon the charging system. ??? ... Do a KZR search for capacitor or battery eliminator or something like that.

What's usually done is to get rid of the battery, install a capacitor, & wire the headlight so that it's off when the ignition switch is turned ON to start the bike. I probably overlooked something, but that's the basics.

Thays exactly what i want to do. I want to eliminate the battery and electric start from the bike. Haha obviously the bike already has a kickstart. I assume i will need to sort through the wiring harness eventually and take out the wires i dont need? I was told this year bike will only with start if the battery is hooked up? I already began removing the battery box and all that comes with it

Not only will it not start without a battery; it won't run without one. You need to do more research and become totally familiar with your specific bike before you start removing stuff. As a starting point you should read up on field coil charging systems. Ed

Thanks. After i research it. Does anyone know what all parts i will neednto upgrade other than the charging system etc?

I gotta scoop up one of these four-hundies before they're all projects.

Friesema993 wrote: Thanks. After i research it. Does anyone know what all parts i will neednto upgrade other than the charging system etc?

One problem you could encounter is that the end of your crankshaft may be shaped differently than the 79-on 400s, so the different charging system stuff might not fit.

Hmm maybe ill have to just disguise my battery

You don't see it when riding...trust me.