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.
Q: I’m slowly restoring a 1982 Kawasaki KZ1000R1 and am having difficulty identifying the correct black paint to use on the engine and carburetors. I’m under the impression that the paints used in 1982 no longer meet regulatory requirements in the U.S. and finding a suitable replacement is difficult. Any chance that you have insight on this matter and a source for the paint codes and type of paint? — Drew Jones/via email
A: I’ve never worried too much about a correct match for black barrel paint; it’s more important to get a heat-resistant paint. Most of the time I just use a quality brand spray paint made for BBQ grills. It’s meant to take the heat and has worked well.
