PROX Top End Gasket Kit for KAWASAKI KX 500 1989-2004

The PROX 35.4409 top end gasket kit is designed for KAWASAKI KX 500 from 1989 to 2004. The top end gasket kit brings together the gaskets to replace every time the cylinder head or cylinder comes off. A gasket crushed by tightening never gets its shape back: refitting it means risking a compression, coolant or oil leak, and having to strip everything down again.

Specifications

• Brand: PROX
• Manufacturer part number: 35.4409
• Weight: 80 g
• Engine: 2-stroke

When to replace it?

• Coolant or oil seeping at the head/cylinder or cylinder/crankcase joint.
• Coolant level dropping, bubbles in the radiator.
• Hissing or black marks where the exhaust leaves the cylinder.

At every piston change and every time the cylinder head or cylinder is removed, even for a simple inspection. Gaskets cost little compared with the work of stripping the engine.

Fitting tips

1. Clean the gasket faces without scratching them (plastic scraper, solvent): they must be clean, dry and free of burrs.
2. Fit the gaskets dry, without sealant, unless the workshop manual says otherwise.
3. Refit a base gasket of the same thickness as the old one, unless you are deliberately adjusting the squish.
4. Tighten the cylinder head in a criss-cross pattern, in several stages, up to the manufacturer's torque.
5. While it's apart, replace the spark plug and refill the coolant.
6. After break-in, check the torque with the engine cold and make sure there are no leaks.

Why PROX?

Founded in 1975 and based near Amsterdam, ProX specialises in engine and clutch wear parts for off-road bikes. The brand has most of its range made in Japan, by OEM suppliers, for quality on a par with the original parts.

Spare parts and items to plan

• Piston : WOSSNER · WISECO
• Piston rings : WISECO · WOSSNER
• Spark plug : see the selection
• Coolant : LIQUI MOLY 1 L · TWIN AIR
• 2-stroke oil : LIQUI MOLY 1 L · MOTUL 800 1 L

Frequently asked questions

What does the kit contain?
Depends on the model. Compare with your original gaskets if in doubt.

Should I replace it along with the piston?
Yes: as soon as the cylinder head and cylinder are off, new gaskets go back on. It's the right time to fit a new piston kit and new rings if the engine has some hours on it.

Compatibility

Check the exact model and year of your bike in the list below before ordering.

Fits:
KAWASAKI KX 500 2004
KAWASAKI KX 500 2003
KAWASAKI KX 500 2002
KAWASAKI KX 500 2001
KAWASAKI KX 500 2000
KAWASAKI KX 500 1999
KAWASAKI KX 500 1998
KAWASAKI KX 500 1997
KAWASAKI KX 500 1996
KAWASAKI KX 500 1995
KAWASAKI KX 500 1994
KAWASAKI KX 500 1993
KAWASAKI KX 500 1992
KAWASAKI KX 500 1991
KAWASAKI KX 500 1990
KAWASAKI KX 500 1989