TOPIC:

I ended up pulling the starter on my KZ1000P to install a new manual tensioner.. created more room. As long as it was off, I might as well put the new starter brush rebuild kit I ordered a few weeks ago from Z1. I pulled the starter apart and see two brushes... I open the rebuild kit and I see 4. The manual shows 2 brushes. The page on Z1 shows 4. Anyone have any thoughts on this?

Mike

That kind of stuff goes on all the time. Maybe someone has replaced the original starter with one that fit and was "good enough". Compare the manufacturer's name, model number and power rating which are usually cast into the non-drive (opposite the shaft) end bell (housing) of the starter. This will tell you a lot right away.
What was the model number of the starter that the factory originally installed on your bike ??? Kawasaki sure doesn't mention it anywhere....usually....although I see in my factory KZ650 manual they DO mention that the '78 650's use a Mitsuba model SM224D....but no power rating given. If you have the factory manual for your bike this may help you sort out your mystery. You may have to track down a totally unmolested example of your bike and get the owner to let you look at his starter or send you some pics. Otherwise, you're just guessing.

Looks like I got the wrong reference for the brush kit. One of the guys on the KZP board did some research:

the physical characteristics of the starters of all KZ1000’s are interchangeable from 1977 to 2005. They are all superseded to the new two brush model 21163-1143. They started with the 2 brush model in 1990. However, ANY WORKING KZ1000 STARTER WILL FIT any kz1000p.

Thanks for your reply. Much appreciated.

Mike

Sometimes you just have to acknowledge when your expections are wildly surpassed by a vendor. Jeff and Rob at Z1 Enterprises were all over the problem when I brought it to their attention. They have been *aggressive* in tracking down the solution I need and ensuring my satisfaction. The level of concern they had for my situation and the amount of action they demonstrated in getting it solved was uncommon and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone with KZ or other vintage Japanese bike. They make you miss "the old days" when small business really and truly cared about their customers. They don't know I'm doing this.. this is 100% from the heart.

Thanks,
Mike

Right on Mike.