Coolant

Fatblokexl · Sep 11, 2015

just bought a Trophy 3 and under the seat is an expansion tank. Usually, being a car driver, i was thinking should it not have a cap similar to a car but this has a washer bottle type of cap.
the level is low so i was wanting to top up the coolant (if this expansion bottle relates to the current coolant level that is) would i put the coolant in there?

Red Thunder · Sep 11, 2015

I know with my Speed Triple, the expansion tank needs to be topped up to just above the minimum mark, regarding your bike, it may be prudent to top it up to between the min and max mark when the engine is cold.

The expansion tank is not pressurised, hence the clip on cap.

It is also good practice to check the level in the radiator, when the engine is completely cool, remove the radiator cap and check the level is right to the top, making sure the cap is at the high point if the bike is on a side stand or even a paddock stand. A faulty radiator cap may allow air into the system when it is cooling, and hold it in when it gets hot which is why some systems get air blocks, overheat and fail! So it is important to ensure there is no air in the coolant system at all.

There are many videos on topping up/replacing and flushing through coolant, a good source is 'Delboys Garage' on YouTube.

If topping up with coolant, it is very important to use exactly the same type that is already being used, otherwise you could end up with sludge and a quickly deteriorating engine!
When using water, it would be best to use de-ionised water (used for topping up batteries) as this is its purest form and contains less impurities. However it will dilute the solution and make it less efficient.

As it happens, this weekend I am replacing my coolant and hoses with Samco hoses and Evans Waterless coolant which requires a complete flush of the system!

sprintdave · Sep 12, 2015

all good stuff,just checked my Sprint today,all looks good.yippee. on my bike the rad cap is a bugger to get at but then again I have big awkward hands ,probably easy peasy to someone with small hands and nimble fingers.
nice bike the trophy,enjoy.

Red Thunder · Sep 16, 2015

Avoid Evans Waterless Coolant, I am flushing mine and reverting to premixed Castrol coolant for motorcycles.
The waterless stuff is thicker which puts a strain on the coolant pump, and runs at a higher temperature which I believe is not good at all.

Red Thunder · Sep 21, 2015

On Saturday, I did 3 flushes including a cycle of radiator flush.
Top up with water, take the engine to temperature, cool down, then drain.
When the water came our crystal clear then I topped up with Castrol Motorcycle coolant.
She now runs a lot cooler and I am more confident.