CHECKING COOLANT LEVEL

[BLACK WIDOW]

Does anyone have a fool proof way of checking the coolant level on the Spyder? I did read a thread about using a flashlight but even then I cannot be sure of where the level really is. The problem seems to be that a shadow is cast on the overflow tank by the back edge of the trunk/frame and the shadow falls right at the full mark on the tank. I have bounced the front end in hopes of detecting some movement of the liquid, but still am not sure of what I think I see. There has got to be a better and less subjective way to check this. Does anyone have the same problem?:gaah::dontknow:

 

[NancysToy]

Does anyone have a fool proof way of checking the coolant level on the Spyder? I did read a thread about using a flashlight but even then I cannot be sure of where the level really is. The problem seems to be that a shadow is cast on the overflow tank by the back edge of the trunk/frame and the shadow falls right at the full mark on the tank. I have bounced the front end in hopes of detecting some movement of the liquid, but still am not sure of what I think I see. There has got to be a better and less subjective way to check this. Does anyone have the same problem?:gaah::dontknow:

Flashlight trick works for me, even with the auxiliary fuse block in front of the coolant tank. I did have to use a small diameter Maglite and move it around until it was just right.
-Scotty

 

[zzneonzz]

Does anyone have a fool proof way of checking the coolant level on the Spyder? I did read a thread about using a flashlight but even then I cannot be sure of where the level really is. The problem seems to be that a shadow is cast on the overflow tank by the back edge of the trunk/frame and the shadow falls right at the full mark on the tank. I have bounced the front end in hopes of detecting some movement of the liquid, but still am not sure of what I think I see. There has got to be a better and less subjective way to check this. Does anyone have the same problem?:gaah::dontknow:

I have the same problem with checking the coolant level. I can usually find it if i get down to eye level and rock it back and forth then i'm generally able to see the level move or not move if its way to low.

 

[zeebill]

Yep I have a problem too with seeing the level. I tried the small mag-lite and that works pretty good. First time I added some I overfilled it and used a syringe to get it out and down to level. I use the real heavy green anti-freeze straight when adding liquid and at least I can see that in the overflow tank. Only added about a half pint in 4000 mi8les so far. Bill

 

[xpeschon]

I will add this, although I have never added any coolant I believe you can not (or should not) add just any coolant.. Now having said this, I maybe wrong, I know with my 2 wheeler motorcycle it has to be silicone free and I use Havaline from Auto Zone... Just a fast comment in-case it fits the spyder.. Any thoughts here NancysToy?

Just thought I would threw that out there..

Joe

 

[NancysToy]

I will add this, although I have never added any coolant I believe you can not (or should not) add just any coolant.. Now having said this, I maybe wrong, I know with my 2 wheeler motorcycle it has to be silicone free and I use Havaline from Auto Zone... Just a fast comment in-case it fits the spyder.. Any thoughts here NancysToy?

Just thought I would threw that out there..

Joe

I go with the BRP recommendations. They say 50:50 ethylene glycol antifreeze & distilled water mixture, "suitable for use in aluminum engines." It will say that on the label.
-Scotty

 

[xpeschon]

I Knew you would come back with the correct info, Thanks brother... So I'm thinking maybe the green stuff will work..

Joe

 

[BLACK WIDOW]

Coolant level

Does anyone have a fool proof way of checking the coolant level on the Spyder? I did read a thread about using a flashlight but even then I cannot be sure of where the level really is. The problem seems to be that a shadow is cast on the overflow tank by the back edge of the trunk/frame and the shadow falls right at the full mark on the tank. I have bounced the front end in hopes of detecting some movement of the liquid, but still am not sure of what I think I see. There has got to be a better and less subjective way to check this. Does anyone have the same problem?:gaah::dontknow:

Well, I figured out why I could not find the coolant level in the overflow tank. It didn't have any in it pps: So after filling it up to the line with some Prestone 50/50 all is OK. I find that it is a lot easier to find the level now.

 

[Recluze]

You want to use a 50/50 mix. Straight anti freeze does not conduct heat as well as water. 50/50 mix gets the best freeze protection and best cooling. A case of where more is not necessarily better.

 

[czdaryle]

I have to get some antifreeze...what is everyone using. Is the prestone 50/50 okay. I believe it is for aluminum engines or do I need to use dex-cool or prestone xtreme sport motorcycle. I guess I can just go to dealer but easier to get something at the auto store.

Thanks

 

[spyryder]

It's just anti-freeze, the green stuff.....they're pretty much all aluminum compatible nowadays.