need 1000 engine. how much trouble is an engine changeout? i  have garage and tools and general auto experience.  and retired.

With the experience you have, you can do the change.

Best place to look is on the ZG/GTR and COG Forums.

Post that you want to buy a C-10 engine.
Someone that is parting out a bike will probably have 1 for you.

After that, probably try Craig's List for your area.

What is wrong with your existing motor?

Ride safe, Ted

#4 conn rod bent.  engine wont turn over w starter or back wheel.  thanks for advice.

Ebay is a good place but the shipping can kill the deal.

Here are some (that sound good) off eBay that you could buy it and go pick up for a nice weekend trip...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2003-88-03-Kawasaki-Concours-ZG1000-ZG-1000-Engine-Motor-RUNS-VIDEO-30K-Miles-/161451274123?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item25973eef8b&vxp=mtr#ht_1327wt_1124

http://www.ebay.com/itm/00-2000-KAWASAKI-ZG1000-CONCOURS-ZG-1000-ENGINE-MOTOR-3292-/121425060547?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&hash=item1c457f62c3&vxp=mtr

check your local craigslist for a whole bike. Considering you can get an early model for about the same price as an engine it may be worth just getting one that way and transferring your farkles and body work over if you toasted the motor.

Also since most people don't ride much those usually have low miles but rough exteriors, I just saw a few 86 models sell for around the $500 mark, the bodies looked terrible but the bikes had maybe 20k miles on em.

Sell the extras that some people need like mirrors, seats, windshields and you may actually end up getting the motor for free.

a new friend  recommended  SIX4 MOTOWORKS  in calhoun ga. and he is rebuilding the engine for me.  shane cloer is owner and mechanic of this 2 month old business. he formerly taught auto mechanics at gordon h.s.  saw video of golf cart he put 350 chevy in, couldnt even tell it had been modified at first glance.  put engine under and behind front seat.  school still has it.  my bud said ford dealer called him when they needed some help.   looking forward to riding soon again. 
      thanks for all the help and advice!!

I know that the holidays probably slowed the mechanic.
Just looking for an update.
Is he making any progress on your motor?

Ride safe, Ted

i think he got some autos in and put our bikes in last place due to weather. thats ok w me.  he is just getting started w his shop, hiring some help for front i hear.  thanks for asking.  how is your world?  been riding?

Not much riding.
Waiting out weather and doing some deer season.

Best of luck!

Ride safe, Ted