Saving a '81 KZ750-E

Finally got the cams clocked and torqued. One more valve clearance check and I can put the cover on.

Final valve clearances are:

Exhaust: 1) .18 2) .18 3) .15 4) .18
Intake: 1) .18 2) .18 3) .15 4) .18

I am missing some of the correct length screws for the clean air block off plates, so some are not installed yet. But it sure looks nice with the top end on!

After arm stronging the hanger bracket and making it do my bidding, I have clearance with the bolt heads and my swingarm brace.


I had to cut a notch in the hanger bracket so it would mate up to the rear foot peg bracket. It will come apart for painting, along with the rear foot peg bracket. Try as I might, several areas require touch up paint.

When I had to replace this bike's rear master, I bought an aftermarket unit (new) for an '06 - 08 ZX-6R. It barely lasted through the first bleed before starting to leak. I ended up buying a used OEM unit off Evilbay for an '03 ZX-6R. It showed up really grungy, with one side spray painted. I knew it was a gamble, but upon disassembly it is definitely rebuildable. The mount spacing is still correct, but I need to get different hardware and match some hole sizes to get it bolted up. I ordered all the soft parts from Kawasaki for the rebuild.

I won't be using the reservoir or line that came with it, or the brake line. Everything lines up well with the stock linkage.

Used rear master cylinder is all cleaned and blasted, waiting for the rebuild parts to show up.

The cam chain tensioner is painted, waiting for the new sealing washers.

When it's 22 F outside and you have to paint parts...

You have a great shop. Just another indication that you will produce an awesome bike. Location Location Location!

Accelerated curing in process! Thanks, Mikaw... It is definitely my happy place. I spend the majority of my time in it, that's for sure. I can tell by how much fire wood I am going through this winter. More than last year! So far my outside temperature record with the wood stove is 765 degrees, using my laser pyrometer. Heats the shop nicely...

HAHAHAHAHA!!! When you have to paint some bolt heads, but don't want to use tape. Holds them nicely until fully dry. Anything with paint on it does not get burned (paint is on the side facing the wall).