Radiator swap & Hoses, Major Service, etc

Discussion in 'Maintenance' started by BladeOfGlory, Jan 5, 2022.

  1. BladeOfGlory

    BladeOfGlory Active Member

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    I've a few bits planned for the blade (2008) this spring, before I go to Spain for 2 weeks at the end of May.

    My radiator isn't in great nick so I bought a 2nd-hand one in slightly better nick which I'm planning to swap in after a clean and re-black.
    Also bought Samco hoses and clips as a Christmas present to myself. Need to give everything underneath a good clean as well.

    For swapping the radiator I've ordered:
    - a new (old) rad
    - new rad guard
    - new Samco hoses
    - new hoseclips

    and about to order
    - 4L of coolant (Silkolene mag cool)

    I'll flush the new rad with water beforehand just to make sure it's clean on the inside. Pretty happy with the general swapping process having read various threads.

    What else do I need that I've not thought of, before I have the bike in pieces?

    Bike is also slightly overdue the 16k mile service (valve clearances etc) so will be getting it booked into Doble's for that soon too.
    Though now I think about it - I think they need to remove the radiator for valve clearances..., meaning I've wasted money on fresh coolant...

    TIA
     
  2. TonyEmm

    TonyEmm Member

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    If you can do the work you set out already then why not do the whole service yourself?
    You’ll save a fortune and know it’s been done right. Get yourself a PDF of the factory service manual and take your time, it’s not difficult work just time consuming which is why dealers have to charge so much.
    If you do still go to the dealer they will just move the radiator out of the way, no need to remove it or drain it for a valve check
     
  3. BladeOfGlory

    BladeOfGlory Active Member

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    Main reason being that if the clearances are off then it becomes an even more major job... I am happy doing moderately involved spannering but that suddenly feels serious haha!

    This is reassuring though - thanks!
     
  4. NS400R

    NS400R Elite Member

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    Check your clearances then. If ok then great, if not then incur the costs

    with Samco hoses you need to tighten them really tight otherwise they leak.
     
  5. Slick

    Slick Elite Member

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    When I changed mine went through the whole hog and used rad flush too, the 2 part stuff, not sure if it made any difference.
    I used a syringe and tube to empty the expansion tank completely
    I was posh an did the final flush with distilled water, (I collect it from our tumble drier, - great for rinsing bike/cars too as no water spots!)
    Also you may need a drain washer for the pump?
     
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  6. Slick

    Slick Elite Member

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    oh the other thing is check the condition the of the rad cap, if its been on there for years and it the seal is perished or the spring is weak it wont hold as much pressure and allow coolant to leak into the overflow pipe
     

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