Ladies and gentleman: Going to look at a 1979 Gold Wing. Parked for 10 years. Started, but wouldn't stay running, two years ago. Vetter fairing, etc, apparently. Good shape, apparently. Buddy thinking of buying it if it can be brought back to road life. Obviously: All fluids. Tires. Swing arm. Battery. Drain, clean carbs. What about not so obviously? What should I look for in a Gold Wing that was new when I graduated from high school? Anybody need parts, in case it turns out to not be a runner? Price (apparently) is $250, clean title.
Are you looking for a project bike for that new pole barn?? Wanna work on a '71 Triumph? :uhhuh It's the year you graduated from 4th grade!
Timing belts for sure. Get a Clymer manual for the procedure. You, or your bud, definitely do not want a belt to break. Bent valve at the minimum if one does. NAPA has the belts at equal quality to the OEMs and half the price. If the carbs need more than just a cleaning, see http://www.randakks.com/ He's the GL1000 carb guru. It might also be a good idea to change the radiator hoses. Radiator hose is Gates #21517. That Gates number cut in two but not exactly in half will replace both OEM hoses. Or NAPA #7733. Check out the Classic Wing Club, too: http://www.classicwingclub.org/ Good luck. BTW, that $250 price is pretty darn good if it doesn't cost a lot to get on the road. Or part it out on eBay if it's gonna cost too much.
Don't forget that in 1979 you're still dealing with points (unless it was converted) and the other head features (gasp) a mechanical fuel pump! +1 on the belts too. I busted a belt on my '76 and lost two valves, not to mention the tow to get it home. Don't forget to generously lube the drive splines on the final drive. They're notorious for wearing out.
belts, forgot belts! and that was an "interference" valve train, wasn't it. all good advice, and appreciated. haven't seen it yet, but buddy sez it is mint. if it's mint, parting out seems like a real option.
If its cosmetically mint, and you're thinking of parting it out, let me buy it for $250. I can come get it in a few weeks after I move. Seriously. I sold my '78 about 4 years ago, and wouldn't mind getting another. Kevin Live in Canton, moving to Plymouth, have a place in Lake City, so probably drive by where ever you are in "mid-Michigan"