another coolant/antifreeze question

[DonGee]

I'm not sure what the policy is here about posting to old threads, but rather than add onto one from 2017, I thought it might be okay to start another.

I'm getting stuff ready in anticipation of winter storage, and I'm all set with the oil and filter, researching gear oil (hard to find SAE90, so I'll probably end up with 75-90 or 85-90), and am now researching antifreeze/coolant. I have read through the threads here and as usual, there are varying opinions. So here's my question to add to the confusion.

I have already on hand, most of a gallon of Toyota 50/50 Prediluted Super Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant from when I topped off my Prius last year. So I thought, hmmm...Toyoata is Japanese. Suzuki is Japanese. There's no silicate listed in the ingredients. And since many folks say it's all pretty much the same as long as there's no silicate, I wonder if I could use this stuff in the bike. I mean I have no problem with spending $20 for fresher, more motorcycle specific coolant if it really makes a difference, but if this stuff fits the bill, why spend the money?

Thoughts?



FWIW, according to the listing on Amazon it's compatible with All-terrain-vehicles;utility-vehicles;street-sport-motorcycles;off-road-motorcycles;street-cruiser-motorcycles;street-touring-motorcycles;street-motor-scooters;snowmobiles;marine-personal-craft.

And more research says it's "silicate free".

[navigator]

Either 75-90 or 85-90 rear gear oil ia acceptable, you only need about 8 oz. so a quart goes a long way.
The 50-50 coolant you have is fine.
An ounce of Bars leak liquid will help lubricate the water pump.

[DonGee]

Good to know, all around. Thanks !
I'll probably go with the Mobil 1 75-90 for the gear oil since people seem to be consistent in liking it.
And yes, I forgot about the BarsLeaks. Do you think a drain-and-fill will be okay with the antifreeze I have or do I have to go through the whole process of flushing with distilled water and/or vinegar?

[navigator]

Drain and fill.
Use the bleeder on the frame during refill.
Put the front tire on a 2x4 slab to elevate the radiator during refill.

[DonGee]

Thanks. I assume you mean to use the bleeder on the frame for the drain. Or am I missing a step?

1. Take off cover
2. Loosen drain plug (bleeder) on frame just past the hose
3. Let old coolant drain out, then close drain plug
4. Put the front tire on a 2x4 slab to elevate the radiator
5. Fill with fresh coolant
6. Run bike a few minutes
7. Top off with coolant
Repeat #6 and #7 a couple of times to get rid of bubbles
8. Top off one final time
9. Replace cap and replace radiator cover

Go for a ride.

[navigator]

Check your manual.
On the left frame rail, up near the neck cover is a 10mm head bolt...it is an air bleeder, coolant runs thru the left frame rail.
Crack the bleeder loose, no need to remove. air is expelled during refill.

[WintrSol]

No, he means the trapped air bleeder, #20 on this drawing: https://www.partzilla.com/catalog/suzuk ... 00gl/frame

[DonGee]

Ahhh....thank you! Damn, I wish those pics in the manual were clearer.

[rocksandhammers]

And don't forget to put the bleeder bolt back on after refilling. Made that mistake once. That left boot never smelled the same again.