engine too hot

[Guest Greg W]

I have a 1985 Venture with a 1988 1300 engine in it.

I have been riding it all year with no issues (once I got brakes bled).

I am finding though that it has been getting really really hot. The temp gauge says its fine but its so hot it even melted some of the plastic vents. Can't be normal. But oil and coolant levels are fine. Any idea's how to proceed? Thank you

[Venturous Randy]

The first thing I would do is verify that the bypass valve is in the correct position. This is the hex below the radiator and the tops of the letters should be in the 5:00 position.

RandyA

[uncledj]

It's actually pretty common for the plastic vent louvers to get hot enough to warp. Some folks remove them completely, I chose to block them closed and put a piece of foil insulation over the vent to keep hot air from hitting my leg, and to keep the louvers from warping.

If you want a piece of insulation, lemme know and I'll send you enough to cover both sides.

[Guest Greg W]

Ok good to know on both accounts. I'll double check position of bypass first.

I'm also going to try some fresh anti freeze as the stuff I put in had spent a few Canadian winters outside in the jug, so maybe it broke down.?

 

I'll put some foil insulation on the inside of the plastic too for sure. Good tip.

Thanks for the offer uncledj, easy enough to get my hands on though so no worries.

[dacheedah]

verify the coolant is flowing