Luc’s Tips August 2012: Coolant Level Check
Last Updated: April 1st, 2024
Keeping our engines cool in the middle of a brutal Arizona summer can be difficult. For those of us with water cooled engines, we can help our motorcycles engines perform at their peak by making sure our coolant levels are correct.
If we don’t keep our radiator fluid levels at appropriate levels, the engine could work harder than necessary. Excessive engine heat can reduce engine performance, reliability, life-span, and in worse case scenarios, cause extreme engine damage.
BEFORE WE CHECK COOLANT LEVEL
We will want to check coolant level once the motorcycle has sufficiently cooled down; approximately one hour after riding. We want the motorcycle to be near room temperature for a couple reasons. First, the cooling system is pressurized, and a release of that pressure can cause the fluid to escape, creating a potential for the fluid to burn us. Second, we want the engine and its components cool enough to work on to avoid burns.
The motorcycle itself should be on flat surface and level. Check with the motorcycle owner’s manual if it requires alternative positioning, like on a side stand or center stand. You will want to have some MOTORCYCLE SPECIFIC radiator fluid on hand should you need to add fluid to the cooling system.
CHECKING THE FLUID LEVEL
This may be the quickest part of the process. Simply follow the following steps:
- Remove the components necessary to have access to the coolant reservoir tank (see service manual for your specific motorcycle).
- Check the radiator reservoir tank to see if levels are in between the low and high marks on the tank.
- Perform a visual inspection of radiator hoses, clamps, and other areas around the engine for leaks.*
- Put the motorcycle back together.
- Go riding!
*If you spot any issues, make sure to visit your local authorized motorcycle dealer.
We want to hear from you. Let us know, on our Facebook page, if you perform a coolant level check and the end result. We want our TEAM Arizona family members to have safe, cool rides this summer!
-LUC
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of any manufacturer. The content provided is merely educational and not intended as a replacement for professional repair. TEAM Arizona, its staff, and its RiderCoaches are unavailable for private motorcycle repair; we recommend seeing your local dealership or repair shop.
