Coils are fabulously simple devices that work reliably and can last for decades with virtually no maintenance. I like to think of them as electricity “amplifiers.” When the breaker points open, the magnetic field produced by the primary windings collapses. Through the magic of induction, this collapse creates an energy force within the secondary windings… Continue Reading →
Ballast Resistors Explained + Ballast Testing Procedure
Like most battery/coil setups of this vintage, early GoldWings feature a “wasted spark” ignition design. This clever design was chosen by the engineers to save weight and space. Thus, only 2 coils are required to fire 4 spark plugs. All without a distributor as in most cars of this era.
GEN III Dual Weber 40 Intake Manifold Set (Specifications)
As installed and tested on RC003
Low Power Issues on Honda GL1000?
(This Tech Tip is written for the Honda GL1000 …mostly applicable to any vintage motorcycle.) If you’ve ever ridden a “healthy” GL1000 you will agree that it is a surprisingly fast bike …especially given its vintage. The original design goal by Honda was slanted toward “sport” rather than “touring.” In fact, when GL1000s were… Continue Reading →
General Honda GL1000 Troubleshooting Guide
You might consider this item: Randakk’s GL1000 Carb Rebuild Video Note: You should do a valve adjust and compression test (in that order!) before doing ANY ignition or carb tuning. GL1000s will run poorly when valve lash is not set exactly to spec. Fortunately, valve lash stays “in spec” for a long time once properly… Continue Reading →
Dyna/S Installation / Troubleshooting on the Honda GL1000
Setting up a Dyna/S ignition on a GL1000 can be a vexing proposition. The good news is that done properly – it’s a “once and done” proposition!
Spark Plug Tricks
Here’s some information on spark plugs which old farts probably know, but young whippersnappers might not have seen before.
Comprehensive GL1000 Charging System Troubleshooting
This Tech Tip is provided courtesy of Ray Proebstl of Munich, Bavaria, South Germany. Ray is a professional educator in the field of electronics. He is a long-time avid GoldWing enthusiast. Here are the components of the GL1000 charging system.