HOME                                  VINTAGE KX TECH TIPS
         
KX 400 CLUTCH PLATES:     There is a replacement friction plate available for the kx 400, but
very slight modification is required.  The KZ 400 and 440 use the same plate as the F12MX which will work
by slightly filing the basket edges or the plate ears.  This works great if you have a basket with wear.            
This tip came from Tony Moseley at KMC.     The Kawasaki part number is:   13088-1001


COUNTERSHAFT SPROCKET:  As we all know by now, the front sprocket is a tough find. I
have been told that nobody made an after market replacement over the years,but I have seen at a few.  
The fix here is no secret, you simply cut the center out of your old worn out sprocket and have it welded in
the center of a new sprocket.  A lathe is very handy here in order to assure trueness.


STEERING ANGLE ON THE 400:  Another common complaint on the KX 400 is that the bike
doesn't steer well due to the rake angle.  I have not experienced the problem myself but you can help
offset the condition a little by getting longer rear shocks(by about 1-1 1/2") and raising the fork tubes in
the triple. The next problem which arises when you do this is the need for a longer exhaust hanger.  Stay
posted as I will be offering  Circle F pipes with custom length hanger brackets.


SHIFT SHAFT END PLAY: As with many of these vintage bikes, the KX's also have excessive
end play of the shift shaft.  There are a few fixes here, as we all have seen washers or grommets behind a
shifter to limit the inward movement.  I like to determine the amount of play and then build up the 'dummy
end' with brass, then machine to the exact the length needed.  A similar fix is to have a cap bushing
machined to the exact thickness of the end play.  



KX 400 REPLACEMENT SHIFT LEVER:  A good replacement shifter comes from the later
kx100 which is a steel lever with a nice folding end.  I have used others such as one from an early Maico
heated and bent, but the KX 100 shifter seems to do well.  I was given this tip by a fellow competitor who
also rides a Kx 400 and works for Kawasaki.  The Kawasaki part number is:  13242-1286






          The information given here is offered to help keep those green machines running.
                    We are not responsible for any conditions resulting from using this free advise.
                              Please use your own judgement on using these or any tips given.