About the Kawasaki KDX400
Fork, steering-head and front-brake service for the KDX400’s listed 1979–1980 applications.
A KDX400 front-end service starts by separating fork leakage from rough steering or brake-control wear. Inspect each assembly before dismantling it and record any replacement forks, steering stem or controls. That record is especially useful when comparing KDX400 and KDX420 parts: some service items overlap, but the steering-bearing kits featured in these guides differ.
Separate steering wear from fork problems
Inspect steering movement and bearing condition alongside the forks, but identify which assembly causes any stiffness or play before ordering. A replacement fork or steering stem changes the fitment checks needed. For the front drum brake, inspect the shoe surfaces, drum, cam and cable mechanism together; lever shape alone is not enough to confirm compatibility.
Know your KDX400 before choosing partsKDX400 repair checkpoints
Use the checkpoints below to prepare the parts list for your repair.
1979–1980 service
A shared range, separate checks
The four featured items list KDX400 1979–1980. Confirm the dimensions and fitted assembly for each item rather than treating the matching dates as a complete-service kit.
KDX400 versus KDX420
Steering kits differ
The KDX400 guide features the SSK-904 steering kit; the KDX420 guide features another kit. Match the stem and bearing seats before selecting either.
Brake control
Inspect from lever to drum
Check lever fit, cable operation, brake-cam movement and shoe condition. Replacing one worn component does not establish that the rest of the front brake is serviceable.
Identify your motorcycle before orderingKDX400 identification checklist
Record the motorcycle’s identification and check for replacement assemblies before choosing service parts.
- Record the KDX400 frame identification and model year, and note any replacement forks or steering stem.
- Compare steering-bearing dimensions and fork-seal measurements with the removed components before purchase.
- Identify the front brake shoes, lever pivot and cable attachment from the installed drum and handlebar controls.
Contact PartsNMore with the model year, frame and engine markings and clear photos of the component being repaired.