Motorcycle Repair: Goldwing, clutch pack, page mentions that

Question
Hi Bill,
I recently purchased a 1982 Goldwing GL1100 w/ 58k miles. My problem is, upon quick acceleration, I am getting hesitation and at the same time hearing a "ratcheting" type sound coming from the engine. The clutch does not seem to be slipping at all and everything else seems to be normal otherwise. Can you make any suggestions?

Answer
Bruce, I think the comments page mentions that I am not an expert with Gold Wings. I researched some links for you here:

http://www.randakks.com/TechTips.htm#48
http://archive1.gwrra.org/discus4/messages/3742/17382.html?1045874994
http://www.gwrra.org/
http://www.goldwingfacts.com/forums/forum1/14723.html

I believe that some early models had a special anti-chatter plate in the clutch pack that needed to be placed either in the center of the pack or on one end. I can't find the info now, but one of the sites above should be able to assist, if that is the problem. I would also be wary of the possibility of the drive shaft u-joints being worn and causing the kind of noise you indicate. At 58k miles, it is work checking.

Bill Silver