Calling John Schmidt - What to ask when looking at an '82 Wing

[BF]

I know there's lots of folks on here that have experience with these older Goldwings that might could provide a little insight. 

I'm going to go look at this café wing Wednesday afternoon. 

I'm wanting to know what to look for and what's the right questions to ask about these old wings. 

[reclaimerroger]

First thing I would ask is "DOES THAT DOG BITE".
Just trying to be helpful.  LOL.

[John Schmidt]

I saw that one when it was first brought up a few weeks back....Christmas is coming and I still have an empty tree. 

If the rest of the bike has been gone through like the outward appearance has been, then most likely you don't have much to worry about.  You might ask about the generator....has it ever been replaced or at least tested. Is it OEM ignition or solid state conversion, likewise the coils....OEM or Accel replacements. Get as much info re. maintenance records; oil/filter changes, fluid flushes, etc.  Those pipes look like you don't want to announce your presence once you pull in the garage. I'd just look it over the same as I would when looking at a used Valkyrie. The same basic questions apply. Let us know if you get it, I'm dying to know how it sounds. Good luck.

[Pappy!]

BF - That thing is great looking.

[John Schmidt]

I read the post on the main board, all good suggestions. Let us know if it finds a new home with you.

[BF]

Work got in the way of me going to look at it.  He has a really screwed up work schedule as do I.  Texted him today that I can't look at it now, but I'm still interested, but it's gonna have to wait a bit before I get scheduled with him so I can look at it. 

[OnaWingandaPrayer]

IT looks to be done very well cosmetically . If some one spends that much time to modify and polish I would expect it to be mechanically  refurbished as well . 
 Look at the "Comstar" wheels to be sure the rivetsare tight and not cracked around the rivets . I cant really see the forks that well , but it should have 2 piston calipers . The caliper adapters should mount to the forks with 2 bolts . The carbs appear to be the correct 1100 carbs . The 1100 came with electronic ignition and also had vacuum advance . The vacuum advance normally seem to be failed with the diaphram leaking.
 The thing that looks like the fuel tank is not ,t he tank is below the seat . The faux tank houses the air filter and electrical items .
Same as a Valk , have the belts been replaced ? Perhaps a compression check if he would allow . Those pipes oh my what a sound they must make .