Low beam issues

[Goldenroad66]

Hello everyone. I recently purchased a 79 GL1000 and she has been good to me so far. Only minor problem is the low beam does not work (High beam works) The gentleman I purchased the bike from said you might need to replace the whole thing. Excuse my lack of knowledge on the matter but I've never had any headlight issues on previous bikes but I'm sure it's a simple fix.
I appreciate any input

[Placerville]

I don't know what the PO meant by, "...replace the whole thing" but, have you checked the bulb? It would be your first logical step.

Remove the headlight by removing the chrome headlight rim (# 2 below). The headlight will come out. Pull the plug from the back of the bulb and inspect it for corrosion etc. If you find any issues, clean and re-test. If there's no corrosion, with the ignition turned to 'ON', check the plug for voltage with an ohmmeter. If the 'low beam' connector shows no voltage, you'll need to trace that lead back until you find the cause. However, if you have voltage at the plug, you'll then need to replace the bulb. Your bike came from the factory with a F4 type bulb that is still available from Honda at a very reasonable price. To justify the $12 shipping on the $6 bulb, pick up some spark plugs and other small items you might need.

[Goldenroad66]

It was a sealed headlamp, got one for 15 bucks at O'Reillys. Good to go!

[Placerville]

Very good! BTW, there's a functional difference between automotive and motorcycle sealed beam headlights as they focus light differently. Some who've inadvertently purchased automotive headlights have not been happy with the beam.