Motorcycle Repair: motorcycle, honda goldwing aspencade, 1986 honda goldwing


Question
Hello Mark,
    I have a 1986 Honda Goldwing Aspencade 1200CC. The problem I'm having is you can start the engine cold and it starts right up. Just sitting there idleing, the engine will die just like you turned off the key switch. Sometimes it will start right back up if you restarted it; other times it won't start at all no matter how you try to restart it. It  will just die on me going down the road. Again, just like you turned the key switch off. It's caught me in some pretty hairy situations in traffic and it seems like the problem has gotten worst. I had Honda rebuild the carbs; installed a new fuel filter, spark plugs, air filter,new stator, etc.,etc.,etc. I've taken off the seat and checked all the wiring under it and in and under the fairing but didn't fine anything shorted anywhere. I just don't know what to do at this point. When the bike runs as it should you wouldn't want a better ride. I'm lost at what to look for now and would appreciate any help you would be willing to send me. Thanks in advance, D.J.

Answer
Hi DJ,

Sorry to hear about the electrical problem you're experiencing.

Unfortunately, I would need to be with the GL and investigate to find the source of the problem. It's a lot of work, but you can remove the ABS and go through each multi-connector. Disconnect each connector and apply dielectric grease into the female side and reconnect. You may discover and fix a loose or faulty connector.

Dielectric grease helps prevent shorting from washing, rain, and corrosion.

Look over wiring for evidence of wire chaffing and other defects. Rodents love to chew wires.

Disassemble switches (controls) and inspect contacts for corrosion, defects, and spider webs, etc... I found a dead insect between contacts on a handelbar hi-beam sw. control.

My email address is: mshively1@woh.rr.com

Keep me advised on your progress. I can send you some files that may assist you. Send me an email and I'll return the files.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively