Best mechanic

[Crashgordon74]

Anybody have a recommendation for a good independent mechanic that knows his way around a Valkyrie in the Wash. or Oregon area. I live on the south WA coast and won't mind traveling within a 100 miles. Thinking of changing the timing belts on a '97 standard with 17,000 miles. I could do it myself but for the right price I would farm it out. Time is at a premium for me.

                                                                       Crash

[F6BANGER]

Do it yourself. I did it a couple weeks ago. I took less than an hour. That included polishing the chrome on the front of the engine.

[BobB]

You could probably just pull the front cover and inspect the belts that are there without removing them.  Look for cracks across the teeth and fraying.  I replaced belts on my '98 Tourer at five times your milage and the old belts were in like new condition...

[salty1]

Not really sure why you want to change your belts. A forum search would show most belts are replaced when the bike has many more miles than yours. I think F6banger is right, inspect them first. FWIW

[fubar606]

take a pic of it first to refer to in times of question

[dreamchaser]

There is a shop called Cycle Specialties on NE 105th ave in Portland that is great with everything even remotely resembling a Goldwing of any vintage.  His shop was called "The Wingman" before he bought it from his then boss.  His name is Mark Cole, Phone:  503-445-4411. open Tues through Sat.  I have had really good experiences with him and his shop.  He has a Valk that he is doing a custom job on (his own), Has installed Superchargers, Converted trikes.  I trust his abilities.  He was recommended to me by a member here that lives in Vancouver Wa.   Good luck, Gary

[Crashgordon74]

O.K. thanks Gary. I think I remember looking at Wingman's website a long time ago. I guess for now I'll just do an inspection. If everything looks good I may just do it as a winter project. It's definitely good to know about the guy in Portland as he's only a couple hours away. I might use him when I decide to replace my fork seals and add Progressive springs. Thanks guys.

                                                          Crash

[dreamchaser]

He did my forks, seals, Progressive springs, sync carbs, new Avon cobra tires as well as rear end service. He treats you fairly and works with you on drop off or wait.  I'm too old to crawl around on my knees all hunched over (chuckle!)  Happy riding, Gary