If Your Engine Overheats - Honda 2003 ST1300lA Owner's Manual

If Your Engine Overheats

Normally, the segment on your coolant temperature gauge begins to move
above the C (cold) mark and the segments are within the section between C
(cold) and H (hot) marks. Hot weather may cause the number of segments
the gauge displays to climb faster than normal. So will temporary stress
such as climbing a hill. If you're stuck in stop-and-go traffic, the number
of segments may climb some, but the radiator fan is designed to prevent
overheating. Be aware of these variations as you monitor the gauge.
If the number of segments climbs toward H (hot) mark for no apparent reason or
the segment H flashes, pull safely to the side of the road. If possible, park in a
shady area.
Continuing to ride with an overheated engine can cause serious engine damage.
A steaming engine indicates a coolant leak. Shut the engine off and wait until
the steaming stops. Look for a leak, but don't touch the engine or radiator
system. Let everything cool off first.
If there's no obvious problem, leave the engine on so the fan and coolant
circulating system can continue working. Monitor the temperature gauge. The
number of segments the gauge displays may drop after a brief stop with no
load on the engine.
Check the radiator fans.
If the fans are not working, turn the engine off. Open the fuse box (page 163
and check the radiator fan fuse. If the fuse is blown, replace it with the proper
(same rating) spare fuse. Start the engine. If the number of segments climbs
toward H (hot) mark and the segment H flashes, turn the engine off.
If the radiator fans are working, visually check the coolant level in the reserve
tank, located below the left maintenance lid. It isn't necessary to touch the
radiator system.
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Taking Care of the Unexpected
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