🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Kawasaki
Model:
ZL Eliminator
Sub Model:
ZL500 / ZL600
Codes
Model Code Zl500:
ZL500-A1 (1986), ZL500-A2 (1987)
Model Code Zl600:
ZL600-A1 (1986), ZL600-A2 (1987)
Generation
First Generation Years:
1985-1988
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Target Audience:
Kawasaki ZL Eliminator owners, DIY mechanics, service technicians
Competitive Analysis
Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data for self-maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Key Features
Digital Access:
Instant download availability, accessible on various devices for on-the-go referencing.
Lifetime Policy:
Guaranteed replacement if lost or damaged.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Covered Model Years:
1986, 1987
Covered Models:
ZL500 Eliminator, ZL600 Eliminator
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Not specified (Digital Download)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Repair Manual / Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, internal components, tuning
Fuel System:
Carburetor service, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable)
Lubrication Cooling:
Oil pump, oil filter, cooling system (radiator, coolant, fan)
Transmission Drive:
Gearbox operation, clutch, drive chain, sprockets
Steering Suspension:
Steering head bearings, fork internals, rear shock absorber
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, starter motor, battery
Bodywork:
Panel removal and installation, fairings, seat
Intake Exhaust:
Airbox, intake manifold, exhaust system components
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake checks
Troubleshooting:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Engine Repair:
Engine removal and installation, top-end rebuilds, bottom-end work
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing ignition coils, charging system analysis, troubleshooting electrical faults
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber inspection and replacement
Fuel System Service:
Carburetor synchronization and rebuilding
Technical Depth
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed troubleshooting trees and fault code identification (if applicable)
Repair Scope:
Comprehensive coverage from basic servicing to full engine and component rebuilds
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine Zl500
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve, V-twin
Displacement:
498 cc (30.3 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
66.0 mm x 72.0 mm (2.60 in x 2.83 in)
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-55 HP (at crankshaft)
Torque:
Approx. 30-33 lb-ft (at crankshaft)
Primary Engine Zl600
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve, V-twin
Displacement:
599 cc (36.5 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
71.0 mm x 75.0 mm (2.80 in x 2.95 in)
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 HP (at crankshaft)
Torque:
Approx. 35-40 lb-ft (at crankshaft)
Fuel System
Carburetion Zl500:
Two Keihin CVK34 carburetors
Carburetion Zl600:
Two Keihin CVK34 carburetors
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Features
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-disc
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Zl500
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 770 mm (30.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,500 mm (59.1 in)
Weights Zl500
Dry Weight:
Approx. 186 kg (410 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 204 kg (450 lbs)
Exterior Zl600
Length:
Approx. 2,230 mm (87.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 770 mm (30.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,500 mm (59.1 in)
Weights Zl600
Dry Weight:
Approx. 195 kg (430 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 215 kg (474 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle specific safety features, not crash test ratings)
Active Features
Braking System:
Front: Disc Brake, Rear: Disc Brake
Suspension Damping:
Adjustable front forks and rear monoshock provide stability and control.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
N/A (Analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights)
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
N/A
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Recommended every 500-1,000 miles
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically at 15,000-20,000 mile intervals
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with water (50/50 mixture)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Carburetor synchronization drift, potential fuel line degradation, starter clutch wear (on some models), aging electrical connectors.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kawasaki Motorcycle History:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long-standing reputation for performance and innovation in motorcycle manufacturing.
Model Evolution
Eliminator Series Origin:
The ZL Eliminator series was introduced in the mid-1980s as a sport-cruiser, blending the power of a sportbike with the styling of a cruiser.
Production
Production Period Zl Series:
1985-1988
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards And Recognitions:
Not specifically documented for this model year, but the Eliminator series was recognized for its unique styling and performance combination in its era.
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact specifications)
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Recommended every 500-1,000 miles
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically at 15,000-20,000 mile intervals
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with water (50/50 mixture)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Carburetor synchronization drift, potential fuel line degradation, starter clutch wear (on some models), aging electrical connectors.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kawasaki Motorcycle History:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long-standing reputation for performance and innovation in motorcycle manufacturing.
Model Evolution
Eliminator Series Origin:
The ZL Eliminator series was introduced in the mid-1980s as a sport-cruiser, blending the power of a sportbike with the styling of a cruiser.
Production
Production Period Zl Series:
1985-1988
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards And Recognitions:
Not specifically documented for this model year, but the Eliminator series was recognized for its unique styling and performance combination in its era.