Motorcycle Repair: Kawasaki 1500 modification, right angle drive, countershaft sprocket

Question
Before I ask my question, I can help others with Kawasaki 1500's prior to 2000 model that need plastic oil pump gear replacement without splitting the cases. Go on the net to www.VROC.org click on tech it will tke you to a step by step photo article. Very good.

My question is this: I would like to convert a 1500 to chain or belt drive and so far I know that the transmission shafts of the 800 and 1500 are the same. Same part numbers. So I was thinking that the countershaft sprocket of the 800 will fit on the transmission shaft of the 1500 after the right angle drive shaft box is removed. Would the counter shaft sprocket clear the cases? Would there be room for a sheetmetal guard to protect the cases in case the chain broke?
Maybe the right angle drive shaft case could be retained and the shaft extended with the counter shaft sprocket
outside.

Answer
Hi Donald,

I visit or direct others to visit "www.vroc.com" when necessary to help Vulcan owners. It's a very good resource.


Q-1:  "...Would the counter shaft sprocket clear the cases?

Q-2:  "...Would there be room for a sheetmetal guard to protect the cases in case the chain broke?


A:  I have no experience with this modification. I suspect with a bit of fabrication you could make the idea work.

Please advise if you make it work or find any intel on the task.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively