Editor’s note: If you’re having trouble with that old Suzuki, BSA or BMW, Keith Fellenstein is your guy. From motorcycle tuning tips to detailed motorcycle engine repair, he can draw from a wealth of experience to help guide you to success. Send questions to: Keith’s Garage, Motorcycle Classics, 1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609, or send an e-mail with “Keith’s Garage” as the subject.
Finding a master cylinder
Q: I own a 1983 Kawasaki GPz 750, and I am in need of a rear brake master cylinder. I’ve already tried to find a rebuild kit; however, there is no part number listing for one from Kawasaki or the aftermarket. I’ve called quite a few salvage yards and have not had any success. Each time I ask what will work instead from either Kawasaki or the aftermarket, no one seems to know. So I pose the question to you: What from Kawasaki will work or what from the aftermarket will work? I’ve spent a number of years re-doing this bike and this is the last hurdle. I hope you guys can offer a suggestion or point me in a direction. — Dennis Ventura/via email
A: The GPz was produced from 1982 to 1985, and yet there are no replacement kits for the rear master cylinder. I checked several sources including K&L and Kawasaki. Any readers out there with parts substitution advice? You may have to find a master cylinder you can adapt and install in place of the original. This is one of the many challenges of owning old bikes. MC