Coolant; Radiator Hoses; Radiator And Cooling Fan - Triumph Rocket III Classic Service Manual

Cooling
Coolant
An all-seasons type of anti-freeze is installed in the cooling
system when the motorcycle leaves the factory. It is
coloured blue, contains a 50% solution of ethylene glycol,
and has a freezing point of -35°C (-31°F>.
Always change the coolant at the intervals specified in the
scheduled maintenance chart.
The standard coolant mixture contains toxic chemicals
that are harmful to the human body. Never swallow neat
anti-freeze or any of the coolant mixture.
The anti-freeze incorporated in the coolant mixture
contains a corrosion inhibitor that helps prevent damage
to the cooling system and engine. Without this inhibitor,
the coolant would 'attack' the metals and the resulting
corrosion would cause blockages in the cooling system
leading to engine overheating and damage.
Always use the anti-freeze listed in the specification
section and never use a methanol based anti-freeze as
this does not contain the required corrosion inhibition
properties.
Distilled water must be used to dilute anti-freeze to the
correct mixture ratio. If hard water is used in the cooling
system, it causes scale accumulation in the engine and
radiator and considerably reduces the efficiency of the
cooling system. Reduced cooling system efficiency may
cause the engine to overheat and suffer severe damage.
Radiator Hoses
Regularly check all radiator hoses and hose clips for
cracks, leaks or deterioration.
Radiator and Cooling Fan
The motorcycle is fitted with a thermostatically controlled
electric fan situated behind the radiator. The fan cowl is
fitted with six flap valves to add control to the air flow
through the radiator. When the motorcycle is operated at
speed and the fan is off, the flap valves open to allow
more air flow through the radiator. When the fan operates
with the motorcycle stationary or at slow speed, the valves
close to ensure cool air is drawn through the radiator from
the front of the motorcycle.
Check the radiator fins for obstruction by insects, mud,
leaves and general debris. Clean off any obstructions by
hand or with a stream of low-pressure water. Ensure the
flap valves are not blocked or obstructed and are free to
operate.
Using high-pressure water, such as from a pressure-
washer, can damage the radiator fins and impair the
radiator's efficiency.
Do not obstruct or deflect airflow through the radiator
by installing unauthorised accessories in front of the
radiator or behind the cooling fan. Interference with the
radiator airflow can lead to overheating and consequent
engine damage.
12.4
SelVice Manual - Rocket Ill/ Classic / Touring