what a pain!

[John Soliday]

I didn't know Kawasaki's were designed by Catholics ;-)

John (certified, that's why I can say that)

-----Original Message-----
From: bob.sims at us.army.mil [mailto:bob.sims at us.army.mil] 
Sent: Wednesday, January 10, 2007 1:37 AM
To: GPZ LIST
Subject: Re: what a pain!

> Well, I've gotten my new clutch in, and it is operating properly 
> now it seems. But, my problems are far from over. 

Dave, as someone w/80K+ hard miles on my own well-worn and abused GPZ, I'll
second what all others have said.  These engines and clutch assemblies are
very forgiving and tough, but not indestructable.  The bearing material is
probably a very bad sign indeed.

I can't help but recommend that you take the bike to a trusted shop for a
second opinion by a professionally trained mechanic.  A relatively small
amount of expense for pro diagnosis could save you considerably further
expense, time, and heartache, especially when considering major work like
engine rebuild/replacement.

As embarrassing and humiliating as it may be, you may want to take the bike
by truck, hook, or crook to a trusted shop or dealer.  Pensively approach
the service desk, where the manager will warmly greet you by saying
something like, "this is our factory trained and certified mechanic who
takes away the sins of the do-it-yourselfer. Happy are those who are called
to his garage."  You should then respond with something like, "Factory
trained mechanic, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and
my beloved GPZ shall be healed."  :-)

If nothing else, the mechanic can run a compression test (or more) to let
you know if the top end is still good, as well as to give you a second
opinion/diagnosis of the bottom end.

HTH.  Sorry to hear the potentially bad news.  Let us know how it works out.

Bob