The 1988 Honda GL1500 is a touring motorcycle featuring a 1520cc liquid-cooled horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, shaft drive, reverse gear, comprehensive instrumentation, integrated luggage system, and advanced touring amenities. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair information for proper servicing and upkeep of your GL1500 Gold Wing.
Introduction to the Honda GL1500 Gold Wing, model identification, vehicle identification number locations, and general service precautions.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Code | GL1500A (Standard), GL1500I (Interstate) |
| VIN Location | Right side steering head |
| Engine Number | Right crankcase above alternator |
| Color Codes | Candy Spectra Red, Black, Pearl White |
| Service Intervals | Refer to maintenance schedule |
| Torque Specifications | Critical fasteners listed in specs section |
| Fluid Capacities | Engine oil, coolant, final drive oil |
| Special Tools | Required for specific procedures |
| Safety Precautions | Always use center stand, disconnect battery |
| Lifting Points | Proper jack locations for service |
Complete technical specifications for the 1988 Honda GL1500 Gold Wing.
Recommended maintenance schedule and procedures for routine service.
WARNING! Always use Honda Genuine parts and recommended fluids. Improper maintenance can lead to component failure and safety hazards.
Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul.
Valve Adjustment: Required every 16,000 miles. Clearance: Intake 0.15mm, Exhaust 0.20mm
Oil Change: Capacity 4.2 quarts with filter. Use 10W-40 motorcycle oil
Cooling System: Capacity 3.4 liters. Use 50/50 coolant mixture
Spark Plugs: NGK DPR8EA-9, gap 0.9mm. Replace every 8,000 miles
Compression Test: Normal range 185-213 psi, variation max 28 psi between cylinders
Carburetor service, fuel pump, filter replacement, and fuel system troubleshooting.
CAUTION! Gasoline is extremely flammable. Work in well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, and accessory circuit service.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery | 12V 20Ah, maintenance required |
| Alternator Output | 490W @ 5000 RPM |
| Starter Motor | 1.0 kW brush type |
| Spark Advance | Electronic, 10° BTDC @ idle |
| Headlight | 12V 60/55W halogen |
| Fuse Box | Main 30A, sub fuses 10A-15A |
Frame, suspension components, steering head bearings, and wheel service.
Tip: Always use a torque wrench for critical chassis fasteners.
Transmission service, clutch adjustment, reverse gear operation, and final drive maintenance.
Clutch Adjustment: Free play 10-20mm at lever end
Transmission Oil: Capacity 2.6 quarts, 10W-40 motorcycle oil
Final Drive Oil: Capacity 220ml, 80W-90 gear oil
Reverse Gear Operation: Electric motor engagement procedure
Drive Shaft: Spline lubrication every 16,000 miles
Hydraulic brake system service, pad replacement, rotor inspection, and bleeding procedures.
WARNING! Brake fluid damages paint. Use care when handling. Test brakes after service.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Hard starting | Weak battery, fuel delivery | Check battery voltage, fuel flow to carbs |
| Poor idle | Carb sync, vacuum leaks | Synchronize carbs, check intake boots |
| Overheating | Coolant level, thermostat | Check coolant, test thermostat operation |
| Electrical failure | Battery, charging system | Test alternator output, regulator/rectifier |
| Brake drag | Calipers, master cylinder | Rebuild calipers, check master cylinder |
| Transmission noise | Oil level, worn gears | Check oil level, inspect transmission |
Diagnostic Tools: Multimeter, compression tester, vacuum gauges required for proper diagnosis.
Complete electrical schematics for main harness, lighting circuits, ignition system, and accessory connections.
Service Support: For technical assistance contact Honda Customer Service or authorized Honda dealership.