Kick-start retrofit on 1980 GS550..

[the.goodhumorman]

I recall seeing multiple people ask if it was possible. I know first hand (thanks in part to my ability to disassemble much better than reassemble) that you can in fact retrofit the 77-79 kick start hardware to a 1980 engine. Unfortunately, you do have to split the case to do it though. If you have any questions, let me know. I am by no means an expert and will definitely ask more questions than I can answer, but I hope to learn a lot and make some great friends in the process!

[BassCliff]

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[SqDancerLynn1]

It may be possible on the 550. On the bigger bikes the cases have changed
No way to retro fit

[the.goodhumorman]

That is why I was specific about mentioning the 550 and the years.

[Stahlgrau333]

Interesting. I do see that you specifically mentioned an '80, but does anyone know if this will work on an '81 550L?

[the.goodhumorman]

Interesting. I do see that you specifically mentioned an '80, but does anyone know if this will work on an '81 550L?

If you are willing to take the clutch cover off, you should see a hole with 3 threaded screw spots around the back of the exposed area. If that is there, you should be good.

[Stahlgrau333]

If you are willing to take the clutch cover off, you should see a hole with 3 threaded screw spots around the back of the exposed area. If that is there, you should be good.

When I get the time to tear it off, I'll check that for sure. Thanks!

[the.goodhumorman]

When I get the time to tear it off, I'll check that for sure. Thanks!

Hope I wasn't too vague. Let me know if you want a picture.

[Stahlgrau333]

Hope I wasn't too vague. Let me know if you want a picture.

Nope, not at all. I can visualize what you're talking about but if you've got a pic of it, then by all means, shoot it or a link to me!

[JEEPRUSTY]

http://www.thegsresources.com/q_a/gs_qa_drivetrain.htm

[Stahlgrau333]

http://www.thegsresources.com/q_a/gs_qa_drivetrain.htm

I'm not following...didn't see anything in the link that talked about a kickstart retrofit?

[the.goodhumorman]

I'm not following...didn't see anything in the link that talked about a kickstart retrofit?

About a third of the way down, there is a question about installing a kick starter onto an earlier bike. It makes mention that the holes might have been left untapped from the factory, but mine were tapped. Able to screw everything together.

[JEEPRUSTY]

I'm not following...didn't see anything in the link that talked about a kickstart retrofit?

I thought it mentioned that the 1980 case had the mounting holes still inside the case meaning it was possible. Sort of like the KLR 650s.