Making a key by the code number.

Here's how I make a key by the code number;
I'm a Locksmith, and have programs for tracing key code numbers.
I punch in the # and the manufacturer into the computer:



Then choose the right series:



The program tells me which blank to use, and how to set up the key machine.
I load the blank into the machine and press start.



Blank on the left, and a cut key on the right:

Cool!

That's cool! But! The keys look so bland. Is there anyone who makes blanks in the design of the original z1 key?

That Ilco key is what I'm using: KA14 X103.

Is there anyone who makes blanks in the design of the original z1 key?

Our suppliers don't have them.
You may still be able to get them through Kawasaki, or find some on ebay.
I bought one on ebay thats got a black plastic head with the K logo.
Just make sure the milling in the key is on the proper side, as some are on the right as the ones above, and some are reverse and milled on the left.
Also later model Kawi keys could be thicker in the center area, and not fit/slide into the older locks.
Around 1979 the keys got longer with 6 cuts in them where before that the keys only had 4 cuts.
A longer key can be cut shorter, but a shorter key cannot be made longer no matter how long you rub it.

I have a key machine as well but it's not a code machine like yours. I can only copy an existing key.

Actually rstnick turned himself in for advertising but I see his thread as more educational than self promoting. For one thing the technology he's describing is available at most every locksmith shop.

One thing I missed: If you don't have a key. Where do you find the number? Is it on the ignition switch somewhere?

Thanks In Advance

Bill

The code is on the ignition switch on my 81 KZ650. Its supposed to be on the seat lock as well, but I've never looked. I've never seen mention of the code on the helmet lock, so I'm not sure if it would have one or not.

Edit: I checked a nos ignition & lock set: all 3 have the code stamped into them.

JMKZHI wrote:

The code is on the ignition switch on my 81 KZ650. Its supposed to be on the seat lock as well, but I've never looked. I've never seen mention of the code on the helmet lock, so I'm not sure if it would have one or not.

Edit: I checked a nos ignition & lock set: all 3 have the code stamped into them.

Thanks Guy and to rstnick as well for this very informative thread.

Bill

Might try these folks for some blanks.

www.motorcyclekeys.com/blanks.html

The key code # will be located in different spots throughout the years.
On my '78 it was right beside the keyhole on the ignition, as it is on most early, Zs/KZs.
In '79 it was beside the seat lock's keyhole.
On others it may be on the side or back of either lock.
It will be in one of the series listed below.
Any other number is probably just a cast in part # or something.

Kawasaki Key codes:

170-174
175-195
176K-250K
251K-325K
3101-3150
3201-3250
326K-400K
401-470
701-720
706-710
751-795
8001-9000
801-845
901-925
A00-A99
B8001-B9000
E8001-E9000
G1-G35
KZ5001-KZ6000
N1-N35
RVS101-RVS499
Z5001-Z6000

Thanks for my Suzuki key Rick it works like a charm.

Your welcome Kawickrice.
Oh, and it's Rob by the way.