TOPIC:

I just acquired my first kz and the front forks had no oil in them. I thought those bumps seemed a little harsh. Anyway, I haven't picked up a manual yet and need to put oil back in . I was going to go 10wt racing fork oil in them. What is the cc capacity ? They are completely torn down at the moment. I noticed that these do not have air valves on them like the newer kz's. Will these still produce a decent ride even though they dont run with some compressed air in them? What year did they introduce the air/oil fork?

Thanks

76 kz900
Kentucky

180-188 cc's of oil;) id run a little heavier oil these bikes are pretty heavy .

The Kaw Manual for a '76 900 recommends 175 cc of SAE10W oil in each side. You can also check it by measuring the level in the forks with a 'dipstick'.
Measure the oil level from the top of the fork tube. Should be 426mm (16.7 inches).

Is that measurement with the tubes collapsed and the springs inside?

Wow - SAE10W - Just like motor oil?? What do you all recommend?

And you all are right, this is a heavy bike. When I rode it with virtually no oil, it sure did feel scary on big bumps.

Mesure the oil level with the tubes extended. Put it on the center stand.
SAE10W is NOT motor oil. It's thin. The oil you put in your Bike's crankcase is 40W or 50W. But an auto parts store should have the 10W oil. You'll need about 12 oz for both tubes.

1976-1977 kz900
5.9 oz dry(174cc)each tube
4.7oz wet (140cc)
oil level measurement in done tubes extended and spring out. 16.8 inches (426mm)

some guys use ATF it is 10 weight oil and anti foaming
I use 20 weight fork oil

now is a good time to measure the spring length
if they are shorter than 17.9 inches or not equal (455mm) time for new progressive springs

I got the CD you sent me.. awesome - I am going to post it this weekend and send a link for anyone in the future that might want to download it directly.