Every motorcyclist will have to change their coolant. While you can always take it into the shop, you’ll save a lot of money if you do the maintenance yourself. Here’s how to service your motorcycle’s cooling system.
The good news is that it’s not too hard of a task and it doesn’t take much in terms of tools or time.
In the video above, Ari Henning runs through the process for Revzilla’s YouTube channel.
Here’s a closer look at what Ari discusses in the video as well as links to helpful gear and supplies.
The Process
Once you have a cool engine, you can begin the service process.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Open the drain bolt.
- Open the filler cap.
- Drain the overflow tank.
- Check the hoses and radiator.
- Flush the cooling system with distilled water/white vinegar (a 50:50 mix) – optional.
- Put on a new washer for the drain bolt.
- Tighten the drain bolt to spec (use the shop manual).
- Fill the cooling system, using a funnel and the proper coolant.
- Fill the overflow tank to the proper levels.
The Supplies
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Service manual – Haynes Manuals
- Coolant – Revzilla
- Gallon of distilled water (for flushing) – Amazon
- White vinegar (for flushing)
- New drain bolt crush washer – Revzilla
- Basic hand tools (removing parts) – Revzilla
- Drain pan – Revzilla
- Rags – Revzilla
- Rubber floor mat – Revzilla
- Small funnel – Amazon
For more tips and advice, check out the article Ari wrote for Revzilla’s Common Tread.