Talk to Lloyd (RiversZZR). If you have the time and want the assurance it’s done right, that’s a great option.

 

he emailed me.......... best option is finding a good used water pump- but age is not going to be its friend and the find might be a big ask......

this has been the same part from 85-97 (both in the ninja 600r and the eliminator), and even with my supply of parts leftover from my 85,86 & 88 ninja 600r's (same engine and parts) I do not have anything for this and years ago could not even find the correct mechanical seal for an '89 customer bike.. and ended up taking the risk with a ebay used waterpump
parts lack of availability on something discontinued in 97 is exactly why I sold the bike in 2007

and the K&L kit does not come with the mechanical seal, so a worthless kit...... (unless you can resurface your mechanical seal)

other option is to try and resurface the ceramic mechanical seal on a flat plate and some 400 grit, then 600 grit, then 1000 grit and finally some 1500 or 2000 grit and clean well...but the ceramic chips and breaks easily- so beware of that problem......

 

I know this job requires specialized tools like a hydraulic press, so it’s best done by a specialized shop

This is not true, you can remove the old seal carefully with a set of pliers, muscles and a vice. I've done it. You could use a flathead screwdriver as well but only on the inner shaft portion (do not mar your pump housing).

You can then use a properly sized socket and a mallet to tap the new seal(s) in (lube with some oil).

When you mate the housing together on install, ENSURE YOU DAB THE CERAMIC SEAL WITH WATER OR COOLANT. It needs to be a wet surface otherwise they will scratch - the seal works off a fluid film layer to seal properly.