Coolant top up

Craig321 · 10 Oct 2012 at 00:00

I have no idea what coolant the previous owner used in my bike, and can't ask unfortunately.

I'd like to top the reserve up with some Halfords Advanced Coolant (OAT). How can I tell if the coolant in there is going to be compatible? Is there some way to tell if the coolant in there is OAT or not?

I would just drain the system and re-fill, but I'm storing the bike in a few months time while I travel, so will do that when I'm back.

Thanks.

Craig321 · 11 Oct 2012 at 18:20

Thanks all. Better safe than sorry I suppose.

Once I've sorted the rest of the bike (rear disc, pads, etc.) I'll flush the coolant. £24.99 for 5l OAT coolant from Halfords + £3.99 for 5l distilled water isn't bad I guess.

Craig321 · 11 Oct 2012 at 18:57

wazza300 said:
you only need to add some antifreeze,aslong as thats in there it doesnt matter what water was used imo

Not quite sure what you mean? Do you mean I only need to top up with some antifreeze? Or do you mean when flushing the system?

Thanks.

Craig321 · 11 Oct 2012 at 23:52

Scythe said:
Are you sure the coolant is compatible with your bike for a start?

I got some of this for mine, I think it only needed 2/3 litres and that was dropping the old stuff out it and refilling from scratch.

Yup. Haynes manual & Honda manual both say ethylene glycol based coolant free of silicate inhibitors made for aluminium engines which is what the Halfords Advanced stuff is.

Thanks for all the comments/help all