The 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator is a cruiser-style motorcycle featuring a 592cc liquid-cooled four-stroke DOHC inline-four engine, 6-speed transmission, shaft drive, dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake, and distinctive cruiser styling with low seat height and forward-mounted footpegs. Below are key sections for safety, specifications, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.
Key components: 592cc inline-four engine, 6-speed transmission, shaft final drive, dual front disc brakes, cruiser styling with low seat height.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 592cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC inline-four |
| Transmission | 6-speed constant mesh |
| Final Drive | Shaft drive |
| Brakes Front | Dual hydraulic disc |
| Brakes Rear | Single hydraulic disc |
| Seat Height | 28.7 inches |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.0 gallons |
| Weight | 498 lbs (wet) |
| Frame | Double cradle steel |
| Suspension Front | Telescopic fork |
Always wear approved helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing when operating motorcycle.
WARNING! Motorcycle operation requires skill and attention. Inexperienced riders should seek professional training.
Handlebar controls: Right side - engine stop switch, start button, front brake lever. Left side - clutch lever, turn signals, horn, headlight dimmer.
Instrument cluster: Speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, high beam indicator, oil pressure warning light.
Fuel valve: Located on left side of motorcycle with ON, RES, and PRI positions. Ignition switch: Located on top of headlight housing with OFF, ON, and PARK positions.
Starting procedure: Ensure transmission in neutral, turn fuel valve to ON, turn ignition key to ON, pull choke (cold engine), press starter button.
Tip: Allow engine to warm up before riding, especially in cold weather.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
| Service Item | 600 mi | 4000 mi | 8000 mi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil change | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Oil filter replacement | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Air filter cleaning | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Spark plug replacement | ✓ | ||
| Valve clearance check | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Brake fluid change | ✓ | ||
| Drive shaft lubrication | ✓ | ✓ |
Engine oil change: Warm engine, remove drain plug, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 3.7 quarts of 10W-40 motorcycle oil.
CAUTION! Use only motorcycle-specific oils and lubricants.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Fuel, spark, compression | Check fuel valve, choke operation, spark plugs, battery charge. |
| Poor idle | Carburetor sync, air filter | Clean air filter, synchronize carburetors, adjust idle speed. |
| Electrical issues | Battery, fuses, connections | Check battery voltage, inspect fuses, clean connections. |
| Brake problems | Fluid level, pad wear | Check brake fluid, inspect pad thickness, bleed if necessary. |
| Transmission issues | Clutch adjustment, oil level | Adjust clutch cable, check transmission oil level. |
Service: Contact authorized Kawasaki dealer for complex repairs.
Long-term storage preparation: Fill fuel tank, add fuel stabilizer, change oil, remove battery, inflate tires to maximum pressure, cover motorcycle.
CAUTION! Store in dry, cool location. Avoid direct sunlight and moisture.
Limited warranty: 12 months from date of purchase with no mileage limitation. Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. Normal maintenance items and wear parts excluded. For warranty claims, contact authorized Kawasaki dealer with proof of purchase.