Replacing motorcycle coolant

It is very important to change the coolant after a certain amount of time and after the motorcycle has traveled a certain distance. In fact, it is an antifreeze that hardens the engine and avoids overheating or damage caused by too low temperatures.

Unfortunately, the ethylene glycol it contains decomposes after a few years. And if it is not replaced in time, it can lead to corrosion of any metal parts with which it comes in contact, namely the radiator, water pump, etc. In the worst case, this can lead to rupture of hoses and the engine.

Need to replace the coolant in your motorcycle? Discover everything you need to know about changing motorcycle coolant.

When to change motorcycle coolant?

For your motorcycle's sake, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. If it states that the coolant must be changed every year or every 10 km if you want to ensure the longevity of the engine, it is best to follow these recommendations.

But a priori motorcycle coolant needs to be changed every 2 years, maximum 3 years. If you rarely use your two-wheeler, the antifreeze should be changed at least every 40 km, and for some models, at least every 000 km. And if you don't know when the last time you drained the liquid, you better be careful.

Two oil changes a year won't damage your motorcycle. But the opposite can have serious consequences and, above all, cost you dearly. Change the coolant as a precaution and if in doubt, preferably before winter.

How to change motorcycle coolant?

Of course, the most practical solution would be to entrust the drain to a specialist - a mechanic or a dealer. Corn changing the coolant is a fairly simple operation that you can do yourself “Of course, if there is time. Because it will take you two or three hours.

In any case, if you are determined to drain yourself, you will need the following materials: new coolant, basin, washer, drain bolt, funnel.

Step 1. Disassembly

Before we start, make sure the engine is cold first... This is important because if it is still hot, the pressurized coolant can burn you when you open the radiator. If you have just driven through, wait for the vehicle to cool down.

After that, start disassembling by removing the saddle, tank and cover, which is located on the left side of your motorcycle, in sequence. When you're done, you can easily access the radiator cap.

Step 2: Replacing the motorcycle coolant

Clean out the radiator. Then take a basin and place it under the drain plug. Then unlock the last one - you'll usually find it on the water pump, but if it's not, look at the bottom of the cover. Let the liquid flow out.

Make sure the radiator is completely empty.although this may take a while. Last but not least, make sure there is nothing left in the cooling hoses or in the various clamps.

Step 3: Draining the expansion tank

After that, you can proceed to drain the expansion tank. Note, however, that this step is optional especially if you recently poured new liquid into it. But since the mucus is quite small and the operation is quite simple, it will only take you a few minutes.

To do this, unscrew the bolt, disconnect the hoses and completely empty the vase. If, when empty, you notice that the expansion tank appears full, it is very dirty. So don't forget to brush it with a toothbrush.

Step 4: assembly

When everything is clean, put everything back in place, starting with the drain plug. If possible, use a new washerbut this is not essential. Also remember not to over-tighten as you risk damaging the cover or even the heatsink itself. Also replace the expansion tank after cleaning.

Step 5: filling

Take a funnel and fill the radiator gently... Be careful, because if you move too fast, air bubbles can form and it will be difficult for you to keep the antifreeze in it. To avoid this, do not be afraid to apply light pressure on the hoses to remove all possible air from the circuit.

You can pour it not only along the gutter, it is even recommended. And when you're done, grab the expansion tank, which you can fill up to the limit indicated by the word "Max."

Step 6: Do a little test and finish ...

Once everything is in place and full, replace the gas tank and start the bike... This will also allow you to purge any remaining air from the circuit. After that, check: if the radiator is not filled to the bottom edge, do not be afraid to top up until the liquid reaches the top of the chute.

And finally, I put everything in place. Close the radiator cap, place the reservoir, then the side cap and finish with the seat.