Warning: DO NOT remove the radiator pressure cap to add coolant. Topping up is done via the coolant reservoir tank filler. DO NOT leave open containers of coolant about, as it is poisonous.
Before you start
- Make sure you have a supply of coolant available (a mixture of 50% distilled water and 50% corrosion inhibited ethylene glycol antifreeze is needed).
- Always check the coolant level when the engine is at normal working temperature. Take the motorcycle on a short run to allow it to reach normal temperature.
Caution: Do not run the engine in an enclosed space such as a garage or workshop.
- Stop the engine and support the motorcycle upright; use the centrestand if it has one. Make sure the motorcycle is on level ground.
Bike care
Use only the specified coolant mixture. It is important that anti-freeze is used in the system all year round, and not just in the winter. Do not top the system up using only water, as the system will become too diluted.
Do not overfill the reservoir tank. If the coolant Is significantly above the UPPER level line at any time, the surplus should be siphoned or drained off to prevent the possibility of it being expelled out of the overflow hose.
If the coolant level falls steadily, check the system for leaks (see Chapter 1). If no leaks arc found and the level continues to fall, it is recommended that the machine is taken to a Honda dealer for a pressure test.
1. On XL600V and XL650V models the coolant reservoir is located on the left-hand side of the engine, between the rear cylinder and the frame. The coolant FULL and LOW level lines are on the front of the reservoir.
2. On XRV750 models the coolant reservoir is located behind the right-hand side panel. The coolant UPPER and LOWER level lines are visible by looking up at the back of it.
3. lf the coolant level is not in between the level lines, remove the reservoir filler cap - where fitted on XL models, release the cap clamp by undoing the screw. On XRV models, remove the righthand side panel to access the cap (see Chapter 8).
4. Top the coolant level up with the recommended coolant mixture, then fit the cap securely. Where fitted on XL models, secure the cap with its clamp. On XRV models, install the right-hand side panel (see Chapter 8).
