Making a key by the code number.

This is a great thread and lost keys are an on going problem. I don't know about everyone else, but I think this thread should be stickied. Since I've got the little button that allows me to make this a sticky, I'm going to go ahead and do just that.

I'm looking for a key for a 1980 KZ750 twin. I found the number on the ignition and it matches the seat lock. I bought a key with the same number, but its labeled GPz, it fits the lock (correct blank), but doesn't open the lock. I talked to a local locksmith who had the cutting code for 1984 and later for my key code. He thought they were probably the same, but I'm not so sure. Has anybody run into issues where the same code number has been used pre-1984 and post-1984, but the keys are different? Or can you help me find a 1980 version of key code Z5365.
Thanks

Well, I had a key cut at the locksmith from the number off of the ignition. I don't know if that helps at all but hey if a key is what you need then this is what you should do.

This is great info. Thanks.

If you have the earlier (4 cut) key, check with an older Kawi dealership. Ma Kaw offered pre-cut keys by the lock number back in the 70's, and if they haven't round-filled them some of the older dealerships still might have some.

There are a few retailers out there with OEM pre-cut keys in stock. I paid 15 bucks for my cherry black plastic OEM key. Just match the code and you're set.

Do a Google search for Kawasaki pre-cut keys. I'll send out a few links at a later point when I'm not at work.

Here you go: www.johnnysvintagemotorcycle.com/

Also, give eBay a shot too. Like I said, I just got a "brand new" OEM key. Black plastic with the Kawasaki shield on it and everything. Cherry. Very happy. The $15 was well spent in my book.

gmannz1 wrote: I'm looking for a key for a 1980 KZ750 twin. I found the number on the ignition and it matches the seat lock. I bought a key with the same number, but its labeled GPz, it fits the lock (correct blank), but doesn't open the lock. I talked to a local locksmith who had the cutting code for 1984 and later for my key code. He thought they were probably the same, but I'm not so sure. Has anybody run into issues where the same code number has been used pre-1984 and post-1984, but the keys are different? Or can you help me find a 1980 version of key code Z5365.
Thanks

The Z**** series does have two sets of codes.
IIRC they're labeled Z****(Older) and Z****(Newer) in the program.
Not sure off hand what year the change over was.
Can you take a picture of your key and post it so I can read the bittings and determine if it matches the Old or New series?

Thanks for the post. I broke my only key in the tank lock to my 95 Police1000 yesterday and this info was very useful. A local locksmith was able to help make a new one and it was a whopping fifteen bucks. As luck would have it I was able to get the broken piece out without causing damage.

I sent a message to the OP (rstnick) regarding getting some keys made up for my 1980 Kawasaki 750 LTD. Does anyone know if he is still around and can still do this? If not, can someone else point me in the right direction? Thanks all.

I would also like to know the answer to the same question. I have the same bike and have the key code. Anyone here can do it?

Send me an email at rstnick@hotmail.com as I don't see posts here often enough.