1987 Honda Aspencade Shop Manual

The 1987 Honda Aspencade is a luxury touring motorcycle featuring a 1182cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, shaft drive, comprehensive instrumentation, integrated sound system, cruise control, and extensive touring amenities. This shop manual provides detailed technical information for maintenance, repair, and service procedures. Below are key sections covering specifications, maintenance schedules, engine service, electrical systems, chassis, and troubleshooting.

1. General Information 2. Specifications 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Engine Service 5. Fuel System 6. Electrical System 7. Chassis & Suspension 8. Brake System 9. Final Drive 10. Troubleshooting

General Information

This manual covers the 1987 Honda GL1200 Aspencade model. Includes safety precautions, tool requirements, and general service information.

Model	Description
GL1200A	1987 Honda Aspencade with full touring package
Engine Type	Liquid-cooled 4-stroke horizontally opposed 4-cylinder
Displacement	1182cc (72.1 cu in)
Bore x Stroke	75.5mm x 66mm
Compression Ratio	9.3:1
Carburetion	Four 34mm constant vacuum
Ignition	Transistorized electronic
Starter	Electric
Transmission	5-speed with electric reverse
Final Drive	Shaft

Specifications

Overall Length: 2470mm (97.2 in)
Overall Width: 950mm (37.4 in)
Overall Height: 1490mm (58.7 in)
Wheelbase: 1610mm (63.4 in)
Seat Height: 780mm (30.7 in)
Ground Clearance: 140mm (5.5 in)
Curb Weight: 378kg (833 lbs)
Fuel Capacity: 22 liters (5.8 gal)
Oil Capacity: 4.2 liters (4.4 qt) with filter change
Front Tire: 130/90-17 68H
Rear Tire: 150/90-15 74H

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Every 600 miles/1000 km: Check/adjust drive chain, check tire pressure, check brake pads
Every 4000 miles/6000 km: Change engine oil and filter, check valve clearance
Every 8000 miles/12000 km: Change final drive oil, check/adjust carburetor synchronization
Every 16000 miles/24000 km: Replace air filter, spark plugs, check wheel bearings
Every 2 years: Replace brake fluid, coolant

WARNING! Always use Honda Genuine parts and recommended fluids. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Service

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance and repair.

Valve Adjustment: Required every 4000 miles. Intake: 0.05mm (0.002 in), Exhaust: 0.08mm (0.003 in)
Cylinder Head Removal: Requires special tools for camshaft alignment
Piston Service: Standard piston diameter: 75.450-75.465mm
Crankshaft: Journal diameter: 47.976-48.000mm
Camshaft: Journal oil clearance: 0.020-0.061mm

CAUTION! Engine must be cold before performing valve adjustment. Use proper torque sequence for cylinder head bolts.

Fuel System

Carburetor service and fuel system maintenance.

Component	Specification
Carburetor Type	VD72A (x4)
Main Jet	#115
Slow Jet	#38
Float Height	15.5mm (0.61 in)
Idle Speed	850 ± 50 rpm
Fuel Pump Pressure	2.5-3.2 psi

Tip: Always synchronize carburetors after any service. Use manometer for precise adjustment.

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams and electrical component service.

Battery: 12V 20Ah, Specific gravity: 1.260-1.280
Charging System: Output: 350W at 5000 rpm
Starter Motor: Brush length limit: 8.5mm (0.33 in)
Ignition System: Ignition timing: 10° BTDC at idle
Spark Plugs: NGK DPR8EA-9, Gap: 0.8-0.9mm

WARNING! Disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Follow wiring diagrams carefully.

Chassis & Suspension

Frame, suspension, and steering maintenance.

Front Fork: Oil capacity: 486ml per leg, Oil type: 10W
Rear Shock: Spring preload adjustable, 5 positions
Steering Head: Bearing adjustment: 1.0-1.5kg (2.2-3.3 lb) drag
Swingarm: Pivot bolt torque: 65 N·m (47 lb·ft)
Wheel Alignment: Toe-in: 0-3mm

Brake System

Hydraulic brake system service and maintenance.

Front Brake: Dual disc, 276mm diameter
Rear Brake: Single disc, 276mm diameter
Master Cylinder: Bore diameter: 14mm front, 12.7mm rear
Caliper: Piston diameter: 38.1mm
Brake Fluid: DOT 4, replace every 2 years

CAUTION! Never reuse brake fluid. Bleed system thoroughly after service.

Final Drive

Shaft drive and rear gear case service.

Component	Specification
Final Drive Oil	SAE 80 hypoid gear oil
Oil Capacity	190ml (0.20 qt)
Change Interval	Every 8000 miles
Pinion Gear Backlash	0.10-0.17mm (0.004-0.007 in)
Drive Shaft Splines	Lubricate with moly paste during service

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Weak battery, clogged fuel filter	Check battery voltage, replace fuel filter
Poor idle	Dirty carburetors, vacuum leak	Clean/synchronize carburetors, check hoses
Electrical failure	Bad stator, regulator/rectifier	Test charging system components
Transmission noise	Worn gears, low oil level	Check oil level, inspect transmission
Brake drag	Stuck caliper, contaminated fluid	Rebuild caliper, flush brake system

Special Tools: Carburetor synchronizer, valve adjustment tools, clutch holder required for major service.

Technical Support: Contact Honda Service Department for technical assistance and genuine parts.