'new' 82 gl1100 first steps

[ericbmerritt]

I have been watching this forum for a long time and finally managed to pick up an 82 gl1100 standard in pretty decent condition. Before I start doing the work to make it look like I want it to look there is a fair amount basic work to get this into good mechanical shape. Just for background, this bike was in someones garage for 11 years getting cranked up every five or six months. The previous owners already rebuilt and resynced the carbs, rebuilt the master cylinder, did some work on the rear drum etc. Basically, fixed all the obvious problems. There are a few other things I know to do, and probably a ton that I do not know needs to be done. For example, while the timing belt should last for 100000 miles, it doesn't like sitting, so probably needs to be replaced. What sort of, getting this into good (not just safe), mechanical condition should I be looking at? Thanks in advance for your advice/suggestions.

[irishcarbomb]

Welcome! Timing belts are a must...

Also have a look here, lots of good info.

http://www.ngwclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=13133

Good luck with your project

[ericbmerritt]

That is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!

[Placerville]

SNIP... "For example, while the timing belt should last for 100000 miles, it doesn't like sitting, so probably needs to be replaced."

Timing belts on automobiles can sometimes go for 100,000 miles but, not motorcycles. The general rule is 5 years or 25K miles. In absence of actual proof that they've been changed within that time frame, always opt for replacement.

[77Pinto]

I......did some work on the rear drum etc......
......the timing belt should last for 100000 miles, it doesn't like sitting, so probably needs to be replaced......

What rear drum?
For what Honda charges THEY (2) should last that long.

BTW: Water pump



Bill

[ericbmerritt]

The water pump should be replaced? or simply inspected and assured that it is good (assuming that is possible).

[77Pinto]

The water pump should be replaced? or simply inspected and assured that it is good (assuming that is possible).

You can pull the lower gooseneck off and look, feel, shake, or anything else you want to the pump impeller and if you think its fine, maybe it is. I have had them SEEM fine with no play, only to grenade a short time later. One did that literally minutes after start up, then dump all the coolant into the crankcase. Water can seep into the bearings and sit there for YEARS.

Here is the reality, if it fails it could take out your engine, and you might never know until its too late. My way of thinking is to deal with it the same as the timing belts: ANY doubt, change it.


Bill

[ericbmerritt]

That argues very strongly for simply replacing it.