If Your Engine Overheats - Honda CB600F 2004 Owner's Manual

If Your Engine Overheats

Normally, the needle on your temperature
gauge will rise to a point about midway
between C (cold) and H (hot) and then
level off. Hot weather may cause the
needle to rise higher than normal. So will
temporary stress such as climbing a hill. If
you're stuck in stop-and-go traffic, the
needle may climb some, but the radiator
fan is designed to prevent overheating. Be
aware of these variations as you monitor
the gauge.
If the needle moves toward H for no
apparent reason, pull safely to the side of
the road. If possible, park in a shady area.
176
Taking Care of the Unexpected
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 needle may drop to the
normal range after a brief stop with no
load on the engine.