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

Cooling
Coolant
A 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, 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 unauthorized 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
Service Manual - Rocket III