Honda CX500 & GL500 Forum

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07-25-2008, 1:52 AM Anonymous Considering a 82 GL500I Hi all!   I have the possibility of trading up to get a 82 GL500I with 33,000 miles.  It's clean, runs good, and appears to be well taken care of.  I've been doing my research but I'm concerned about the dreaded cam chain and mechanical seal issues.  I can't afford to put tons of money into this bike or the down time if I get it so I have a few questions.  Are the chain and seal problems overblown and really don't happen too often?  What is the reliability compared to other bikes of the same era?  At what mileage is it common to see the chain and seal issues?  Whats the longest you can run with the original chain?  What is the costs of parts and parts availbility to replace these things (in US currency)?  And assuming that you don't run too long on the cam chains and maintain it good, what is the average life of these engines?   I understand this is a 26 year old bike but I don't want to bite off more then I can chew. Thanks in advance for the advice!

07-25-2008, 6:12 AM DAVID Joined on 05-16-2007 FORNEY TX Posts 622 Re: Considering a 82 GL500I There is a member on here that recently stated he is the original owner of an 82 GL500I with over 100,000 miles (120K IIRC) with only tune ups, oil changes and tire replacement. Still has original timing chain and water pump seal. Mine has over 30,000 with the original chain and from what I can see, it is in the middle of the adjustment slot. I think I am running the original water pump seal and it is just starting to weap. Parts are still availible and anything that you need to do can be taken care of in your garage with basic tools and mechanical ability and all questions can be answered here. These are probably the most reliable bike. Period. 82 GL500 81 KDX175 If all else fails, read the instructions    Report

07-25-2008, 4:00 PM fll1441 Joined on 11-06-2006 Fort Lauderdale, FL Posts 670 Re: Considering a 82 GL500I My bike is a CX500 with just over 31,000 miles. Like David, my cam chain adjuster looks to be in the middle of its range. I replaced my mechanical seal using Shep's in the frame method (it cost me about $30 in parts). I would guess a new cam chain, guide, spring, gaskets, etc. would cost around $200. In my opinion, the CX/GL series are among the most reliable bikes of their time period. But, you have to be prepared to do your own repairs and maintenance because it is difficult to find shops willing to work on old bikes. If you do find a shop, the cost is likely to be steep. The good news is, if you can find all the information you need right here.    Report

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