Radiator Flush [Archive] - Honda RC51 Forum : RC51 Motorcycle Forums

: Radiator Flush


kpowe1
06-20-2010, 09:51 AM
Dose anyone have the instruction for flushing the cooling system on a SP1 and the type of coolant to keep the bike running smooth.

SubSailor
06-20-2010, 04:45 PM
Instead of going into detail, the better way would be to download the service manual and review the procedure at your leisure.
It's not difficult at all. It may be messy if the coolant splashes everywhere when the hose is removed, but otherwise straight forward.

As for coolant, you should use a silicate-free coolant as silicates can wear water pump bearings and seals.
Honda OEM coolant, water wetter, engine ice, etc. are typically used.
Mix the coolant 50/50 (if not already pre-mixed) with distilled or deionized water (NOT tap water). Fill the system and purge.

While you're at it, check the condition of your fan(s) bearings by giving them a spin.
Often when they will start to squeak when getting old. If they don't easily spin, then replace the fan motors.

Download the service manual from:
http://www.rc51.info/index.php?page=service

DRFLGD
06-21-2010, 01:27 PM
Honda sells a premix! NO MIXING WITH WATER! That's all I buy to be safe!

erick1670
06-23-2010, 05:54 PM
Instead of going into detail, the better way would be to download the service manual and review the procedure at your leisure.
It's not difficult at all. It may be messy if the coolant splashes everywhere when the hose is removed, but otherwise straight forward.

As for coolant, you should use a silicate-free coolant as silicates can wear water pump bearings and seals.
Honda OEM coolant, water wetter, engine ice, etc. are typically used.
Mix the coolant 50/50 (if not already pre-mixed) with distilled or deionized water (NOT tap water). Fill the system and purge.

While you're at it, check the condition of your fan(s) bearings by giving them a spin.
Often when they will start to squeak when getting old. If they don't easily spin, then replace the fan motors.

Download the service manual from:
http://www.rc51.info/index.php?page=service

May I ask why not plain water?

I have done it on my other 2 bikes and just yesterday I hade to drain the coolant put water in my RC to comply for the rules of Advance group in Nesba for my next track day, but never hade any problems to have just water, but I would like to know what could it happen if leaving it with water for to long....

thanks for your input, in advance.

SubSailor
06-23-2010, 06:04 PM
Tap water has too many dissolved minerals and organic matter.
It will cause mineral scaling inside your radiators and engine.
Just as it does inside the pipes of a house.

Even water you buy in bottles has trace minerals (mainly for taste).
Distilled or deionized water is essentially pure water.

erick1670
06-24-2010, 11:03 AM
Tap water has too many dissolved minerals and organic matter.
It will cause mineral scaling inside your radiators and engine.
Just as it does inside the pipes of a house.

Even water you buy in bottles has trace minerals (mainly for taste).
Distilled or deionized water is essentially pure water.

thanks for the info..... as soon as I can will change it to distille water on all the bikes....