TOPIC:

Can anybody verify the Year they quit using the Original Fukusan rear brake switch on the Z1. I know the KZ1000 used the superseded style with the rubber boot... soo...maybe early 1974? I rebuild the Fukusan units, yes they come apart, re-zinc and clean contacts. They also appeared on several other early 70's models. Only difference was the wire length and connectors. Knowledge from members, as always, APPRECIATED!!

The newest Z1-A we have, ser.# 420xx has the Fukusan switch, wires exit vertically from the boot.

The oldest Z1-B we have, ser# 759xx has a booted switch. The boot is molded so the wires exit at a right angle. The body of the switch is slightly shorter than the other Fukusan switches. We're second owners of this bike so it may not be OEM for a Z1-B, but bike is unmolested original otherwise. Perhaps mama Kaw had more than one supplier during production?

The newest Z1-B we have, ser.# 770xx has a booted switch, wires exit vertically from the boot.

John Brookes' excellent publication "Kawasaki Z1 & Z2 1972 - 1973 Restorer's Handbook (Fourth Edition)" makes no mention of anything other than the Fukusan switch.

John is currently working on on the fifth edition.

I'll post the question to him.

Good Ridin'
slmjim & Z1BEBE

As always thanks a bunch Jim! I remember having an early booted right angle exit switch somewhere but don't know which box I put it in? Trying to sort-out all the detail original stuff to make re-assembly for the 73 Z like assembling a kit.