Motorcycle engine cooling system Honda VTX1800C (2001-2008)

Service information of cooling system
General Caution! Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot can allow the coolant to spray out, seriously scalding you. Always let the engine and radiator cool down before removing the radiator cap. Notice: Using coolant with silicate...

Troubleshooting of cooling system
Engine temperature too high Faulty temperature unit (indicator) or thermosensor Thermostat stuck closed Faulty radiator cap Insufficient coolant Passages blocked in radiator, hoses or water jacket Air in system Faulty cooling fan motor Faulty fan...

Coolant (hydrometer test)
Remove the fuel tank (page 5-50). Remove the radiator cap. The engine must be cool before removing the radiator cap, or severe scalding may result. Test the coolant mixture with a hydrometer (see below for "Coolant specific gravity chart"). For...

Radiator сар/system pressure inspection
Remove the radiator cap (page 6-3). Wet the sealing surface of the cap, then install the cap to the tester. Pressure test the radiator cap. Replace the radiator cap if it does not hold the pressure, or if relief pressure is too high or too low. It...

Coolant replacement
The effectiveness of coolant decreases with the accumulation of rust or if there is a change in the mixing proportion during usage. Therefore, for best performance change the coolant regularly as specified in the maintenance schedule. Mix only...

Radiator and cooling fan — removal and installation
Removal Drain the coolant (page 6-4). Loosen the band screw. Disconnect the lower radiator hose from the radiator. Remove the bolts from the radiator bottom. Be careful not to damage the radiator fins while servicing the radiator and fan. Loosen the...

Radiator reserve tank — removal and installation
Drain the coolant from the reserve tank (page 6-5). Remove the bolts. Disconnect the filler hose and remove the breather hose from the frame clamp. Remove the reserve tank out of the frame to the rear. Install the removed parts in the reverse order...

Thermostat — removal and installation
Removal Drain the coolant (page 6-4). Remove the fuel tank (page 5-50). Remove the bolt and thermostat housing. Remove the filler neck bolts and filler neck/thermostat housing cover. Remove the thermostat from the housing. If the filler...

Water pump — removal and installation
Mechanical seal inspection Remove the left crankcase rear cover (page 2-2). Inspect the telltale hole for signs of coolant leakage. If there is leakage, the mechanical seal is defective and you must replace the water pump as an assembly. Removal...