I was inspired to create this Tech Tip after reading an old post by Jim Myers on the Classic Wing Club mail list. The general context of the thread surrounded the issue of setting idle mixture screws. My view – a proper carb rebuild on a vintage ‘Wing, properly MAINTAINED should be a once-and-done proposition… Continue Reading →
Common Honda GL1000 Carburetor Rebuilding Mistakes
You might consider this item: Randakk’s GL1000 Carb Rebuild Video Here’s a partial list of problems encountered by amateurs when rebuilding GL1000 carbs. Often, I’m called upon to resolve botched rebuilds by incompetent mechanics, current or previous owners, brothers-in-law, and neighbors. Avoid these mistakes if you tackle a rebuild yourself. GL1000 Carbs Restored by Randakk… Continue Reading →
Motorcycle Fuel Mileage Issues
Warning: Controversial Material! I get lots of inquiries about fuel mileage these days. It’s no surprise given highly volatile fuel prices! Here’s what I know about the subject.
Vintage Motorcycle Carbs – Lean vs. Rich?
Experienced wrenches sometimes forget that we operate with a set of understandings that becomes so ingrained as to become second nature. I don’t normally rely on gizmos like the K&N Air Fuel Monitor shown on my supercharged GL1000 (above). But since things happen so quickly on that bike, it’s a useful and entertaining tuning aid.
What I’ve Learned from AHRMA Vintage Roadracing
By: Randall Washington (aka Randakk) Vintage motorcycles can change your life. I mean that quite literally. Building a business immersed in such fabulous machinery has been quite a ride. One of the best aspects? Working with the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association, AHRMA.
Starting a Honda GL1000 after a Long Lay-up
I’m often asked how to return an engine to service after a long lay-up. The starting point would be an engine which hasn’t been started in several years. Hopefully, the crankshaft will turn freely without heroic measures. You should always check this before buying an old bike that’s been sitting. I “pass” on most opportunities… Continue Reading →
Flooding Issues on Vintage Hondas
Flooding is a common problem in vintage Hondas – especially on bikes that don’t get run much. Flooding can be just a minor aggravation …like hard starting or poor fuel mileage. But, it can also lead to catastrophic problems such as severe engine damage or even a fire! Flooding issues should not be ignored!
Viton in Vintage Motorcycle Carburetor Components?
All of the ordinary round orings and many other components in Randakk’s Master Carb Overhaul Kits® are made of genuine Viton®. In fact, every oring we’ve ever shipped has been made of Viton®! There are actually many “grades” of fluorinated synthetic rubber like Viton®. Randakk’s uses the same spec material that Mercedes and Toyota use in fuel system… Continue Reading →
January 2018’s Featured Products
Happy New Year, Goldwing lovers! Looking back on 2017, you probably put a healthy number of miles on your Honda. You know this is right up the Randakk’s alley when we say that you may be due for a carb cleaning/rebuild. Is your motorcycle hard to start? Is it running a bit off-kilter? When you… Continue Reading →
