1982 Kawasaki KZ750 LTD Rescue! Wash, Detail, Oil, Fuel, Ignition, Brakes & Carb Sync

With only 6000 miles on the odometer it should run like new, but after 40 years, anything is possible. The previous owner tried to turn it into a cafe racer. Flat bars. K&N air filter pods. No telling what else has been done. After a short ride I can hear engine noise and it has trouble accelerating. Time to dig in.
Impact Screwdriver Set for breaking loose those stubborn case cover screws amzn.to/3PiBeLu
Handlebar amzn.to/47g1NXj
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[@ZeR-rm1pf]

Just got a 1982 kz550 ltd 11k miles. $1k. Never worked on a bike before but Im learning with this one and its kind of easy to work on. Cleaned carbs first time ever and the bike ran pretty nice. Tuning it was tricky but it makes a huge difference when you do find the sweet spot!

[@spencerbovenizer5393]

Just bought a 79’ barn find. Also my first bike with 7k.

[@bradenublish3710]

same here. isnt it awesome how sinple but great machines these older bikes are? i absolutely love my kz

[@Hibitrate916]

Best channel for KZ750 hands down ! Thank you 🙏🏼

[@sstressfl]

You are the best 👊😎👏👏👏

[@tashideleck366]

Hello I just picked up 1982 KZ 650 and It needs some work to bring it back to life 2023. Getting courage and knowledge from your video. Thank you

[@sstressfl]

I’m glad it helps! Just focus on one system at a time and you can make it as good as new 👍 Enjoy! 🙏

[@jumpinjack1]

Just saw your vid good camera work, I have the same bike and went through basically the same things, shimmed cam, changed handlebars, new ebay brake reservoir, set carb floats and balanced (big job), tires with balance beads, new stronger ignition coils, chain, etc. etc. Once its set up it will be a very reliable and trustworthy machine. Use 20/50 synthetic oil not 10/40 as these air cooled bikes run hot and oil is much better now then in 1980. Lots of Fun :)

[@sstressfl]

This bike has 6000 miles on the engine. It’s very clean but seems it’s previous owner did not have a lot of experience. The Honda oil i put in made it silky smooth! Would be afraid to go too thick with such a young motor. It just needs timing corrected and I think it would be 100% :) that will be the next tweak.

[@jumpinjack1]

@@sstressfl Thanks for the reply, don't know if timing is adjustable or not on these? Mine is electronic and I can't remember messing with it. I did put the gray Dynon coils on it for a much stronger spark and sure starts. I have put about 18k miles on bike which is now reading about 37k on the odometer and two back tires. I think the biggest hurdle and most time consuming was balancing the carbs, there's no flat spots and it definitely likes the higher rpm ranges. 42 mpg or so is what mine burns. A joy to own :)

[@sstressfl]

@@jumpinjack1 this one was upgraded by previous owner with electronic. Timing can be advanced or retarded. Advance springs are too loose. It goes full advance too quick. Springs need to be tighter, or tightened! Carbs are perfect.

[@jspade3358]

Going to go through with buying one of these tomorrow. This video is an excellent resource! Thank you.

[@sstressfl]

Hey that’s cool!! I hope it’s rock solid! Enjoy and be safe! 🙏😎

[@tomquinn607]

Excellent rebuild of the important systems for safety and dependability. Great work!

[@sstressfl]

Ty Tom!

[@oscarcalles4117]

I have an old 82. I will absolutely be using your videos. Thank you much

[@sstressfl]

Had so much fun with that bike. Enjoy and thank you for the feedback! 🙏

[@joshuaiseria.4234]

you remind me to be humble. Ithink your pastor will love it with open arms ..thank you for the video God bless

[@sstressfl]

All is grace 🙏 thank you for the kindness brother. God bless you.

[@kenwilson01]

I love the "Woodward Ave." sign...I work in Ferndale Michigan, , on Woodward Ave, Our shop is in the the Heart of the "Woodward Dream Cruise"..Excellent Video...Thank You..

[@sstressfl]

I got that sign at the first official woodward cruise :) I used to work in Bloomfield Hills and lived in Clarkston at the time and drive my college-build 1979 Aspen Wagon sleeper. Man that was fun, I watch every year on youtube :) What's the name of your shop?

[@kenwilson01]

@@sstressfl Wetmore's, the building with the car on the roof...

[@sstressfl]

@@kenwilson01 an absolute icon!! Love it :)

[@dirtydanny870]

My handlebars came the same way, I just bought a bike like this from some guy that lest it outside for 5 years and I realized the Handlebars are right up against the front break

[@billsomerville1426]

I have just been through all this and more with a 77 Suzuki GS750 which I laid up for 20 years. You may be right about the master cylinder but what worked for me was modern organic brake pads and simple braided front brake hoses. The original rubber ones would be very flexible by now, and were supposed to be replaced every few years.

[@sstressfl]

I appreciate the feedback 👍👍👍🙏🙏🙏 Thank you! I did check the hoses and I’m sure they could be replaced but when I squeezed the brake they didn’t move/expand anymore than my stock hoses on my new bike. But I do agree stainless braided lines would help. ✌️

[@allanmcelroy9840]

I had those air bubbles with mine too. 1984 Kawasaki KZ550f Shaft drive. Guess it is a Kawasaki feature-self bleeding brakes from the master cylinder

[@chrisweeks6973]

Nice one, Mike - well done! Always good to see an old bike ger sorted. I had an L1, also with the round headlamp, finished in silver with blue markings on the tank. Bought it new in Melbourne in 1981, put a Gear Sack and rack on the back, an air seat and a 3/4 fairing; other that that, it was stock. Made it a nice touring bike for the distances that we have here in Australia.

[@sstressfl]

That’s really cool. Great looking bikes, lots of power, and very comfortable! Surprising how smooth these engines are. I could see how it would make a great bike for longer distances. Are you still riding?

[@chrisweeks6973]

@@sstressfl Yes, they are a very good bike and I wish I still had it. Mind you, I say that about most of the bikes that I've owned! Yes, I am still riding, though here in Philippines, where traffic speed is generally around 25-30 kph, 40 is flying and 60 is land-speed-record territory, my little Skygo Earl 150 Classic is quite sufficient. At age 76 I still consider myself a youngster, so I hope to be riding for a good few years yet. I may not be the boldest rider, but I have serious ambitions to be amongst the oldest.

[@sstressfl]

@@chrisweeks6973 I love it. Given that 52 came so quickly upon me I realize how fast my 70s will arrive. I don’t mind going slower and slower. I just pray the Lord allows me enough awareness balance and strength to keep rollin 👍🙏 thank you for sharing with me. Cheers and may you continue to ride for many years to come 🙏🙏🙏💪💪💪

[@chrisweeks6973]

@@sstressfl Thanks, Mike and I hope He gives us both that, too. I'm finding that age is a bit like a bike; the higher the numbers, the faster it seems to go! Stay well, safe and enjoy. Cheers!

[@Markynast]

For your information: I own a kz750 '81 the gearbox chain is rattling since it has no tensioner. The knocking noise on these bikes are normal.

[@renerenatorivera9062]

Had one of those years ago(1983) when I was on active duty as a Naval Officer stationed in Virginia. I traded it for a 44magnum revolver I had bought in Spain(The gun had only cost me about$275.00). Nice bike. Mine had a sissy bar. I'd take my wife out for rides on Sunday afternoons. Good memories...

[@sstressfl]

Its an easy bike to like. It has great lines. Smooth. Comfortable. Great riding position. 44 is an angry gun. Even the heavy Dirty Hairy sized one hurts my hand but it sure is accruate and does a wholotta damage. Thanks for sharing :)

[@mrnukerman4264]

Those petcocks don’t have an off position really, the vacuum from the carb releases the petcock to allow fuel. Probably just a clocked petcock that turning it to “prime” mode bypassed.

[@william1389]

I like your entusiasm!👍

[@sstressfl]

Thank you 🙏

[@germagic2]

one of the best motorcycle videos I have ever seen thank you

[@sstressfl]

Thank you 🙏

[@randywetzler5976]

I ran into a similar problem working on an old Honda Magna hydraulic clutch as your front brake problem. Turns out the hose must have been weak and would swell slightly when activating the clutch lever. Drove me nuts until I ordered a replace line kit, worked perfect after that.

[@sstressfl]

Thank you for the heads up!! Truly appreciate the tip 🙏👍💪

[@midi510]

I had an '80 one of these. The brake reservoir isn't level because the bike came with ape hangers originally.

[@sstressfl]

Yeah I saw that online. They were curved in a pretty wild direction.

[@marcgendron6745]

Nice ride 👍👍

[@sstressfl]

Thank you. Was a lot of fun to work on this bike 😎

[@wmharris9084]

Awesome video. Blessings on ya!

[@sstressfl]

Thank you brother 🙏

[@petev.9357]

I know this is old. The running problem is the pod filters. Why everyone wants to get rid of the airbox is beyond me. CV carbs can't run pod filters. The 4 into 1 pipe further leans the bike out. Leave them stock and they run like the wind.

[@sstressfl]

Oh I know! I know! Sadly I got it after someone else mod'd it. Currently fuel is right, which I suspect the previous owner changed jets. But the timing is all wrong. Needs diff weights and or springs.

[@rencooper]

Could you do another video on the carb sync? Showing the adjustment screws, and how to sync it properly?

[@sstressfl]

I don’t have the bike right now because it belongs to my pastor but if it comes back into my shop, I’m sure it will need another tweak or two :)

[@rencooper]

@ZeR-rm1pf, I bought a 1981 Kawasaki 750 LTD, similar to the one in this video, love it.

[@sstressfl]

It’s an amazing bike. So comfy and quick! Made me smile a lot 😎😁 Enjoy!

[@AR-798]

Great video and witness man.

[@sstressfl]

Thank you brother 🙏

[@darryllongley4025]

I have this bike Just ridden from West yorkshire to Cumbria and back 150 mile round-trip These engines are a peach A real screamer Had the needle bending on the 85mph American speedo a few times Didn't realise the Ltd ment the speedo is Ltd🤣

[@sstressfl]

Very cool :) Sounds like you're really enjoying it!

[@750kristian]

'pri' is for prime. Since fuel won't flow without manifold vacuum it is sometimes necessary to prime the carbs. leaving petcock in prime position when riding does make the bike run lean in my experience--the port through the petcock is smaller than the on position port.

[@sstressfl]

Thank you! Good to know :)

[@darkdestroyer2837]

Thank you so much for this info. Just picked up a CSR 750. Has a misfire going on in the left cylinder. Replaced plugs, gapped, tuned up, went through carbs, but been running on PRI. Going to try switching to the on position before I swap my coil out.

[@gerald4133]

Nice Bike!

[@moriwaki1105]

Had many of these...put air box back on f you can.....and carbs back to standard jetting.....end of problems. Front brake hose angled like that will have air trapped....and Master needs to be off a bike with twin discs. Fit braided lines too if budget allows. Nice old Kawasaki.

[@sstressfl]

Appreciate the experienced feedback! 👍🙏👊

[@moriwaki1105]

You're very welcome....Love the 70s and 80s Kawasaki's ​.. Enjoyed the video.@@sstressfl

[@sstressfl]

Thank you 🙏

[@benjamindavis2037]

What is that tool that you hammer on? I looked for a link in the description.

[@sstressfl]

Sorry! I should have called it out in the video. Here’s a link to the one I bought. It’s called an impact screwdriver. amzn.to/3EofkAd I’ll add this to the description as well. Thanks man.

[@JasinCharai-o6f]

What jets does it have too run on open filters. I have one and with open filters i dont now how too make it run propper

[@sstressfl]

Oh I wish I knew! I never opened the carbs. Previous owner set it up. All I can tell you is the spark plugs had a kiss of tan on em.

[@RaySpeaksTruth]

I just found and really like your channel. I’m considering buying a KZ750 with a high idle issue. It has pod filters and a free flowing exhaust. Im wondering if it caused a lean condition that would cause the high idle? I’m limited on carb knowledge. Wondering if it needs upgraded jets?

[@sstressfl]

If you pull a spark plug or two you will be able to see if it’s running lean! If they are bone white it’s too lean. If they have a kiss of tan, perfect :) And most likely the distributor has been modified. Could be an aftermarket one and the timing is probably wrong :/ Thanks for the kind words my friend! 🤗🙏

[@Lazaralis]

I know it's a year later, but I hope you figured out how a vacuum operated petcock works. There is no hard "off". The "on" position is off when there's no vacuum, the the other two positions are always on, to the ways you'd expect. If "on" isn't allowing fuel flow when a vacuum is applied, yes you can treat it like off, but it's just faulty overall and should be fixed or swapped to regain stock function.

[@sstressfl]

It took me a minute 👍

[@anearbytown]

It seems odd that you can pull in the clutch with the side stand down on this model. On mine they were linked so it stopped you setting off with the side stand stuck out. As you pulled in the clutch a wire pulled the stand up if you forgot. Safety first.

[@sstressfl]

My new bike has that but this 82 don’t care lol

[@cafechronicles]

Great video

[@sstressfl]

I like your cafe work! Very nice 👍 💪

[@averagejoesmotogarage9534]

What handlebar bend did you use?

[@sstressfl]

I bought this one amzn.to/47g1NXj 👍

[@t_revski]

Great video!! I just picked up an 83 Ltd 750! I got it to start, however it won’t run right. Really bogs. I’m thinking the main jets are gunned up from sitting. It definitely wouldn’t be bad spark plugs causing a rough idle correct?

[@sstressfl]

Thank you man! What a fun bike. Before you attack the carbs, definitely give it a tune up. New plugs are cheap, make sure they are gapped correctly, and take a look at the old ones! Their color will reveal what's happening inside the engine. Lean, rich or just right. Make sure the air filters are clean/new. Change the oil and filter. Then diagnose! Carbs could be gunky. You could spray some gummout inside to see if that effects the running. If it doesnt then it could be your timing advance is off. As I discovered with this bike, someone had replaced it with a new electronic one and it was not correct. Wrong springs and it was definitely the cause of the bog. Happy hunting! I hope you get it running smooth. Its a powerful bike and a lot of fun to ride.

[@dominikrobinson4267]

I got an 82 ltd and I was just wondering what size or kind of oil filter I should use and love the bars mine are the stock ones but there bent from previous owner laying it down so any advise on we’re to look for new ones kinda like the ones you put on anything helps thank you

[@sstressfl]

You got it! Link for oil filter amzn.to/3xPyyvH and here’s the bars (man they feel great and look great!) amzn.to/3Smcn8e Let me know how it goes! 👍😎

[@Aciecarter238]

Sharp bike. I have all kinds of the old kz bikes

[@sstressfl]

It really does have some nice lines.

[@lancekuhpow8489]

What year were those gsx 750 mirrors? Might switch my kz550 ones..

[@lancekuhpow8489]

Also, the bars u got. The rise and pullback please? Ty

[@sstressfl]

2015 GSX-S750. They worked perfect and looked great, right?

[@sstressfl]

@@lancekuhpow8489 Here's the bars amzn.to/3k1esr0

[@lancekuhpow8489]

@@sstressfl they did indeed ty. My bike needs a whole new MC and lever, could I get any that fit my bars?

[@sstressfl]

@@lancekuhpow8489 Brake fluid volume is important! I tried to match the stock MC to the new one. Also, the brake light is diff on anything other than oem. But you can easily cut and solder wires as needed.

[@alexdavy3762]

I have the same model with the same odometer which is amazing! The only problem I’m having is that it has hesitation from idle to 4K rpm in which it then gets moving after some bogging. Cleaned out the carb and reset needles. If anyone can help please let me know, such a beautiful bike.

[@sstressfl]

Did you check the timing?

[@miguelochoa1371]

So not sure if I missed it but which position is the fuel “off”

[@sstressfl]

Someone said it’s vacuum operated. It’s in off position when you shut off the engine I guess.

[@GooseBlade]

What was your air fuel mixture on the carbs

[@sstressfl]

Light tan spark plugs ;)

[@roganmitchell1633]

I know this is a old video but I need to know how to jump one before I go and dump money into it for a new ignition and a lot of other things

[@broccoli5505]

Time stamps would be helpful

[@colinhall8998]

Never use synthetic oil in these old Kawasaki’s, it’s recommended as mineral only. Synthetic will ruin your starter clutch 😮

[@sstressfl]

Fortunately I used an oil specd for this era bike that is non syn 👍

[@gerald4133]

I DON'T FIX'EM I JUST RIDE THEM! 🏍️

[@sstressfl]

I got more time than money so I hafta fix em too 🤠

[@BillySBC]

They do sell octane booster, it's called "E85". You can get it from any gas station that sells it. E85 is about 106 octane.

[@sstressfl]

Not a good choice for a pre 1994 vehicle 👍

[@BillySBC]

@@sstressfl All gasoline sold today is either 10% or 15% Ethanol, so you are using it anyway. What I do is to mix 1/3rd E85 with 87 octane Regular to increase octane to about 91, then I add Marvel Mystery Oil to the fuel to prevent corrosion and coat all rubber parts with Marvel to prevent drying out the rubber. This has worked for me for years with no problems at all.

[@sstressfl]

@@BillySBC I understand fuel today. And the difference between e85 and gasoline. And the 10-15% is not the same as e85. You can use 10-15% in pre-1994 engines but not good for older 60s engines that relied on lead. The e85 people say e85 is not safe for pre-1994 engines. I'm sure additive can help. As I used to add lead additive to old engines when I was a younger man to coat and protect the valves. Ultimately this engine has a timing problem (aftermarket ignition with wrong springs). Not an octane issue. No one should need 106 octane in a bike from this era unless you've done some crazy mods :) Also for me specifically... there is no e85 here... the nearest pump is about 4 hours away. I'm not bashing e85. Its the stuff for happy forced induction engines! It has its application. But not necessary for this engine.

[@BillySBC]

@@sstressfl Do you know what the lead was used for in leaded gas back then? It was used to lubricate the valves. Marvel Mystery oil suspended in the fuel does the same thing. I have a 1972 vehicle and I have been using a 1/3rd mix of E85 with Regular gas and Marvel Mystery oil for years with not one problem. Don't believe everything you read, it's not going to hurt your classic vehicle is you use Marvel along with it. I would not however use more than 1/3rd E85. The only reason to use it to give you a guaranteed boost in octane (which the older cars need because Regular gas was 93 octane back in the 1960's and early 70's). Basically you get the octane of premium for less than the cost of Regular. Hope this helps.

[@sstressfl]

@@BillySBC All good info! I hope someone can benefit from it.

[@iblacka1]

At least you admitted the truth LOL

[@lancekuhpow8489]

Dale? That you?

[@sstressfl]

😆

[@DaRealJit]

Just bought one for 300 bucks for a battery being dead😂

[@sstressfl]

That’s an incredible buy!! 💪😎

[@marcelpacheco7878]

kgytees

[@deniskefallinos39]

I can’t believe you returned to your pastor a motorcycle with substandard brakes. But you made sure to polish it 🙄. Feedback - fix EVERYTHING if you intend to call it a rescue.

[@sstressfl]

That was my intent but unknown how long I might need to source the brake master cylinder. He hasn’t seen the bike since he bought it! So I asked him what he wanted to do. I dropped it off and he is going to chase it down. My door is open when he needs me.