Coolant System Air Bleeding.

[PoPPin600]

Could anyone out there tell me the proper way to bleed the cooling system on a 99 Vmax 600 SX triple? I have been getting contradicting opinions of how the process is actually done and was wondering if someone out there who knows could break it down for me. Does the system need to be bled every time the carbs are removed? do you bleed the system with the sled cold or after warming it up? Sled Running or sled Off? Is there a few bleed points to consider or just the bleeder under the seat? I have been told numerous different things which is why I am asking. I just want to make sure that I do it correctly to avoid potential overheating issues. Thank you.

 

[Garyauk]

Mine was low to the point of just barely any in the expansion tank. I just cracked the bleeder screw under the seat, then filled it at the radiator cap ( it took awhile as you have to fill, let flow, fill again, repeat...) then filled expansion tank to correct level. At first startup I will let it warm to normal temp and then check and fill as necessary. I'm no expert though so maybe others will add to this...

 

[roudyroy1]

Raise the rear, start it up, let it get warm then, crack the bleeder. Let cool, add coolant and repeat.

 

[PoPPin600]

Thanks. I'll give it a go and see how it pans out. I had to replace my carbs and I havent bled the system since and the carbs are heated, so I'm pretty sure that there is air in the system. Is the bleeder thats under the seat the only bleeder that I have to worry about, or is there another one on top of where the coolant line bolts to the head?

 

[roudyroy1]

Should do the one on top of the "thermostat housing" I've only ever bled mine after changing coolant or something, for carbs I just heat cycle it a few times and the air works its way out.

 

[Garyauk]

I looked in my Clymer manual and it says to fill at pressure cap (60/40 ratio), replace pressure cap and fill reserve tank to proper level. Make sure carb heater valve is open, run 2-3 minutes to purge the cooling system of trapped air. This is only if reserve tank is empty. If reserve tank still has fluid just top off. I would re torque cylinder head nuts to 17 ft lbs as well. Several of mine needed tightening.

 

[PoPPin600]

Thank you sir. I have wondered about the head bolt torque specs. Thank you guys.

 

[Garyauk]

No problem! Sounds like we have similar sleds. Mine's a 1999 Vmax SX 700 Triple. Bought it used in April for $600 (only 2300 miles on it)! I have pretty much gone thru the whole thing and it's ready to ride! I have the Clymer manual for these sleds so if you need anything else let me know. I would check the bolts for the exhaust manifold as well. Had one missing (thought it was broken off, but was only missing - got a replacement). A couple of those were loose as well...