Might as well get some info while I'm stuck at school...

[mrk_d]

So I'm pretty slammed with class this quarter and haven't been able to make much progress on my KZ650 cafe build. Since I'm jonseing to ride it ASAP, I figured I'd ask some questions in the meantime!

Some things I have to figure out:

-Starter removal. Going kick start only, and I'm wondering where I could get a plug to plug up where the starter mounts. Don't have the bike+calipers handy so I'm not sure what the ID of the hole is, but figured I'd see if anyone knows where I might be able to look.

-Re-doing the electrical. There's all sorts of stuff I don't understand about electrical yet, but I'm going bare-bones as can be! Going to relocate the battery, but there's all kinds of components I just don't really understand. Has anyone come across a good 'bike electrical 101' type writeup that explains what each piece is/does?

Thanks guys!

 

[crazypj]

Haynes, Motorcycle Electrical Tech book, about $25.00

 

[boingk]

One thing I've heard used for blocking the starter hole is a similar diameter bit of rubber block, longer so it pokes out either side a bit.

Drill a hole through the middle and then fit metal discs on either side with a bolt, nut & washers. Tighten and it'll widen in the hole and make a tight fit. Be sure to use spring washers and a nylock nut though or you could have unpleasantness when the whole contraption decides to let go...

Cheers - boingk

 

[mrk_d]

Haynes, Motorcycle Electrical Tech book, about $25.00

Is this the one you were thinking of? [http://www.amazon.com/Motorcycle-Electrical-Manual-Haynes-Manuals/dp/1859604714] Only 1 1-star review, but the breadth seems like a good aspect.

One thing I've heard used for blocking the starter hole is a similar diameter bit of rubber block, longer so it pokes out either side a bit.

Drill a hole through the middle and then fit metal discs on either side with a bolt, nut & washers. Tighten and it'll widen in the hole and make a tight fit. Be sure to use spring washers and a nylock nut though or you could have unpleasantness when the whole contraption decides to let go...

Cheers - boingk

Seems like a nice simple solution...although I'd love to be able to make a really elegant one like this myself!

 

[crazypj]

Yeah, thats the one.
Price has gone up significantly in last few years.
I bought it to see what was new compared to the 1979 original (lots of 'extra' stuff, about twice thickness of original)
Probably got one star because it isn't completely idiot proof, you actually have to think about whats going on
It's mostly generic so it can be applied to any bike although Honda/Suzuki/Kawasaki/and I think Yamaha did supply some of their training info.
Personally I think it's worth the money, unlike simpler books you can go back to it as your experience/knowledge increases and learn some new stuff

PJ

 

[mrk_d]

Got that book, along with a Haynes 'motorcycle basics' book too. I'm the kind of learner where I need to have a grasp of a general overview before I can start putting the specifics together, so hopefully these dumbed-down manuals will help me pick this stuff up! Getting really excited to keep turning wrenches during spring break.

 

[VonYinzer]

To block off the hole for the starter, go to any auto parts store and get an expansion plug. real cheap. its exactly what boingk described, but already made for ya. they come in different sizes.