[sabbott2518]

just wondering about whether or not to proactively change my radiator fluid? i purchased my CTX April 2015 and have approximately 40KLM.

thanks

 

[Glen Chapman]

just wondering about whether or not to proactively change my radiator fluid? i purchased my CTX April 2015 and have approximately 40KLM.

thanks

I never change mine since I bought the bike in 2015. I don't change rad fluid in my cars either and never had any problems.

 

[BlueThunder]

Eventually you will!

 

[bruceb]

Eight years and 40km/25 miles? Or 40,000 kms?

 

[Stlburd2]

I’ve had it done but only because I had to address a water pump seal leak.

 

[Stirling]

I changed mine at 40K miles and the fluid that came out looked really clean. If and when you do change it, the manual says to open the cylinder block drain screws behind the exhausts which I would NOT do again. I did one side and 1-2 tablespoons came out, which was not worth the frustration of getting the screw out and back in again. The shrouds on the exhaust need to come off and it still was difficult to access. The rest of the process was super easy.

 

[Gregory Tubbs]

The best advice is probably on the antifreeze bottle. Some have an expiration by date, not by mileage. They break down over time and don't protect the metals of your radiator or engine any longer, even though you aren't overheating. Not all types are the same, obviously.
Maybe check out the Q&A of the manufacturers web site.

 

[PapaJohn]

I’ve had a couple of mechanics and another product rep tell me that when the fluid starts to change color (darker), that’s when the chemical properties are breaking down and offer less protection.

Always up to the individual, but I prefer to spend the small amount of $$ to protect the system AND to help prevent potential issues out on the road. For me personally, the savings of $$ or time is simply NOT worth it for my piece of mind.

 

[Gregory Tubbs]

I’ve had a couple of mechanics and another product rep tell me that when the fluid starts to change color (darker), that’s when the chemical properties are breaking down and offer less protection.

Always up to the individual, but I prefer to spend the small amount of $$ to protect the system AND to help prevent potential issues out on the road. For me personally, the savings of $$ or time is simply NOT worth it for my piece of mind.

And when you check the fluid maybe years later. Will you remember what the color was to even notice the difference?
Another thing I discovered with my Vulcan. If there is any cloudy substance in the bottom of the overflow bottle, it's an indication of aluminum corroding. A little was okay, which I had.

 

[PatrickFL]

Its not hard to do. I did mine when I bought used not knowing if it had ever been done. We are at 10 years now on original fill by honda. Bought gallon at Honda car dealer to stick with oem fluid as no Honda bike store near me. I didn't do the extra drain due to reading how little it yielded.
Peace of mind for me, suggested 5yr so 10 is surely getting your money worth.
My understanding is will still work to cool, but loss of anti-corrosive properties isn't something I want.