Stupid question but parts diagrams I have been looking at contradict each other. Would front cylinder be #1 or #2? Need to order a new head for zforce 800ex

You are correct & it's sad. Hopefully I won't confuse you more. In the ATV the motor is backwards to the SxS which is how the parts manual reads.

The SxS parts manual is based on motor placement in the ATV which is wrong because the motor is backwards in the SxS compared to the ATV.

Thanks for that. Was not aware they did it that way. So would that make the cylinder towards the front of the machine #1?

Thanks for that. Was not aware they did it that way. So would that make the cylinder towards the front of the machine #1?

I think NMK went on a holiday. I believe the cylinders are numbered 1 toward the back and 2 toward the front of the machine for the reason NMK stated. You'll also find that unlike an ATV, the CVT's secondary clutch is toward the front and the primary clutch toward the rear. 

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

Went on a camping trip with the O'l lady. Got some riding in so...that was good.

Thanks for that. Was not aware they did it that way. So would that make the cylinder towards the front of the machine #1?

I think NMK went on a holiday. I believe the cylinders are numbered 1 toward the back and 2 toward the front of the machine for the reason NMK stated. You'll also find that unlike an ATV, the CVT's secondary clutch is toward the front and the primary clutch toward the rear. 

You are correct. Cyl 1 is facing rear of machine. 2 faces cab.