Restoring a 1978 gl1000

[Johnny z]

Hello,I'm new to the site and I just picked up two gl1000 naked wings. Both are in sad shape, but one runs. My question is should I rebuild the carbs with the randak kit, or should I send them out for rebuilding/ cleaning? I saw a site that would take your carbs clean and rebuild them then run them on a gold wing engine, then send them back. What works best? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

[WingAdmin]

You really can't go wrong with Randakk's kit - there are documentation and videos available as well if you think you will need the help.

If you don't think you're up to it, there is a list of vendors on Randakk's site who he has vetted as places who do quality rebuilds that I would suggest having a look at.

[Johnny z]

The randakk kit is probably the direction I will go. Seems like a nice complete kit for the quality and price. I will also need an exhaust system. The ones I have are in bad shape, incomplete, and poorly modified. Who would have the best complete aftermarket selection to choose from? And has anyone gone the cafe route for n exhaust? Thanks for the reply. Will let you how it turned out.

[WingAdmin]

I know people have put cheap, commonly available Sportster exhausts on Goldwings with good results.

[NKYWinger]

about the carbs....I sent mine to Pistol Pete's (on Randakk's list) and could not be happier...they look brand new and they put them on a test mule and sync them prior to shipping... for me, it was worth it to have a pro do the job (I did every other rebuild job).

Money well spent.

[Johnny z]

That was the site I was looking into, Pistol Pete's. When you received your rebuilt and dialed in carbs did they require much adjustment after that? The carbs I want rebuilt have a tattered history of bad mechanical skills being applied to them, that is needing a pros touch. How much did your rebuild cost and how long did it take? I will look into the sportster pipes as you suggest, I saw a complete exhaust system on a cafe wing site I may look into, I think it was stainless steel as well, something to think of. Thanks for the info, will look forward to your reply. Have a good one.

[NKYWinger]

Johnny - The bill from Pistol Pete's was $464 which included shipping and Randakk's master kit. When I got them back, I put 'em on and rode! No additional adjustments have been needed. Pistol Pete's was pretty quick on turn around; I don't remember exactly, but it was only a matter of days. Just let them know in advance when you get ready to ship...
They are good folks.