TOPIC:

My recently acquired 1981 KZ 650 CSR engine has points instead of electronic ignition. It is a late 1980 build date, vin says 1981. Engine serial is KZ650DE036053. Can the engine be dated with the serial number ? The #2 carb has an accelerator pump. Looks like the '78s were 650D1, the '79s were 650D2. The alternator is 2 leads. Thanks, Jim

A photo of the motorcycle would help. What's the date of mfg? I'd guess an 81 model would be after 06/1980.

Model identification. jarlef z650

Kawasaki KZ650 service manual. the 1981 KZ650 pdf is in the Files section of the jarlef z650 site.

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The build date is 11/80.

jljim wrote: My recently acquired 1981 KZ 650 CSR engine has points instead of electronic ignition. It is a late 1980 build date, vin says 1981. Engine serial is KZ650DE036053. Can the engine be dated with the serial number ? The #2 carb has an accelerator pump. Looks like the '78s were 650D1, the '79s were 650D2. The alternator is 2 leads. Thanks, Jim

Yes. That is the engine serial number for a 1981 KZ650. See link below for details. Ed

models.kz650.info/index.htm

So the serial number on the engine looks ok for an '81 650csr. Does anyone else have an '81 with point ignition and a 2 wire alternator ? I have the factory service manual for the bike and it only shows electronic ignition and 3 wire alternator outputs ?

That's a 1981 KZ650-CSR. It should have come stock with electronic ignition & 3-phase charging system. Someone must have installed the points ignition & swapped the alternator for whatever reason. You can use the stock electronic ignition from any 81-83 650-CSR & some 80s 750-4s had the same ignition, but you would need the 650-CSR timing advancer. A Dyna electronic ignition is another option.

Model identification. 1981 was the 1st year of the 650-CSR. The 82-83 models had BS32 carburetors & a different headlight bracket, and the 83 also had cast alloy wheels.

I've been looking at the Dyna systems since I got the bike. But with a 2 wire alternator, I may just live with the point system. I plan on riding till the snow flies, then maybe doing some more work over the winter. Thanks, Jim

Where was your stamped VIN and Engine number located? Asking because I can't find mine.

JulieBoolie wrote: Where was your stamped VIN and Engine number located? Asking because I can't find mine.

The VIN is on the steering stem neck. The engine serial number is next to the oil filler hole. Ed