Can a 30-Year-Old Flooded Honda Goldwing Run? The Goldfish Revival

The Junkyard Digs Acquisition

• 🚀 A 1980s Honda Goldwing with a sidecar, nicknamed "The Goldfish," is purchased for $900.
• 💡 The previous owner was an aircraft mechanic who bought the bike in the 80s and had a custom trike built.
• ⚠️ The bike has been sitting outside for at least 20 years, with the license plate showing '98.

Initial Assessment and Challenges

• 🔑 A major hurdle is the lack of keys for the ignition and fuel tank, with multiple locks present.
• 🛠️ The bike is found to be sitting at an angle due to deflated air shocks, which are later re-inflated.
• 💧 Upon inspection, water is found in the cylinders, suggesting the bike may have been submerged.
• 🔍 A borescope reveals significant water and what appears to be rust or damage on the cylinder walls, raising doubts about its running condition.

Engine Troubles and Repair Attempts

• ⚙️ The engine is found to be seized, with water and debris in the cylinders and a cracked engine case.
• 🔧 Attempts are made to free the pistons, including using penetrating oil and manual force.
• 🔩 The engine case crack is addressed with welding and epoxy, though with limited success.
• 🧽 The heads are removed for cleaning, and the valves are lapped to improve sealing.
• 📈 Compression tests reveal varying results, with some cylinders showing decent compression while others are significantly lower.

Carburetor and Fuel System Issues

• 🥜 Carburetors are found to be full of peanuts and debris, requiring extensive cleaning.
• ⛽ The fuel tank's internal metal hoses are found to be completely clogged, necessitating a revised fuel delivery plan.
• 🔌 The bike is hotwired, and a car battery is used to provide more power.

The Goldfish Runs (Sort Of)

• 🔥 After numerous attempts, the Goldwing "Goldfish" eventually starts and runs, albeit poorly.
• 💨 The engine idles at a high RPM and exhibits significant noise, indicating it's far from perfect.
• ⚠️ The bike is tested for drivability, revealing no brakes and a tendency to lean heavily in turns.
• 🏍️ The team attempts to ride it with two people, highlighting the lack of control and safety concerns.

The Verdict and Future

• 🤝 The bike is sold to another YouTuber, Sloan of Project Odyssey, for $300, who plans to continue its restoration or use its parts.
• ✨ A "Certified Different" sticker is applied, symbolizing the bike's improbable revival.
• 👋 The video concludes with the team expressing relief at moving on from the challenging Gold Wing project.