Who’s got more gadgets than a Goldwinger? Likely nobody!
Well for those of us with or without Goldwings, we all have controls that need attention at times. Most of use have the common controls which include blinkers and emergency flashers, high/low beam lights, horn, emergency shutdown switch and ignition key and starter switch. Then there are the not so common switches that are fairly standard on the wing to include: all of the CB and audio radio controls, cruise control switches, etc.
Which ever bike you have and how many controls and gadgets you bike is equipped with, they all will needs some maintenance at one time or another. Controls that are not properly functioning can be a hazard both because they are not able to be used and in the case where you can use them they contribute to additional hazard by causing the operator to exert additional effort and attention to get the control to work.
I remember having to do use 2 finger to get my blinker switch to return to the neutral position so that I could use it again, not something that I would call safe!
Most switch construction does not allow lubrication by simply spraying WD40. Because the controls are subject to exposure from the environment, the designers have reduced the ability for rain, wash detergents and debris from entering easily, so consequentially being able to simply direct spray into the control is not likely, thus disassembly is often required.
Dealerships are not likely equipped or willing to dismantle the controls for lubrication or repair. In fact while my Wing was still under warranty , the Honda dealer replaced the entire clutch-side control assembly because the compression spring that returns the blinker control to neutral had broken. This became a $300.00 vs 30 cents spring and an hour labor issue. Since the warranty has expired I’ve replaced the same compression spring instead of replacing a $200.00 part.
Common issues with controls include sticking or non return of push-buttons and switches, the cause of which could be dried or contaminated lubricant, broken springs, cracked or broken plastic parts, most of which can be repaired with minor labor, small common hardware parts, good epoxy and good lubricant.
Especially for the Goldwing, if you have control issues contact me and let me know what control and how it’s malfunctioning and I will be glad to share my knowledge and experience with you.