Here is a tutorial on an '05 600RR
This is a step-by-step tutorial on how to flush your cooling system. The tutorial is performed on an '05 600RR but conceptually will apply to any bike. Consult your service manual on the differences with your bike and what mileage to service your cooling system.
A note about water. All refrences to water in this tutorial actually refer to distilled water. Do NOT use mineral water or tap water as these contain substances that will eventually corrode your cooling system.
A note about coolant. Coolant in the tutorial refers to the the actual fluid you use in your cooling system. This can be a mix of distilled water and antifreeze, a mix of distilled water and Water Wetter, or some other commercially available coolant (e.g. Engine Ice).
[Click on any pic for a higher resolution version]
Rmove the fairings such that you expose the radiator (A) and water pump (B).


Remove the radiator cap.
At the radiator cap opening is a hose that connects to the coolant reservoir.

Disconnect this hose to drain the coolant reservoir.

Reconnect the hose to the radiator.
Locate the drain bolt on the water pump.

Open the drain bolt and allow coolant to drain.

The 600RR also has a drain bolt on the cylinder block. However, this bolt is very difficult to access as the radiator and header pipes are in the way. So i don't bother with this one.
Close or partially close the water pump drain plug. Flush the system with distilled water by filling the radiator at the radiator cap opening.

By closing or partially closing the drain plug, you allow the water to fill up the cooling system rather than just passing through the system via the quickest possible route. Drain the water and flush as needed until the drained water from the water pump is clean. In a relatively clean system, this generally takes about 2 or 3 gallons. Dirtier systems will require more.
Tighten the water pump drain bolt and torque to specifications (see service manual).
Fill the cooling system with coolant at the radiator and coolant reservoir. Leave the radiator cap OFF.
Now the cooling system needs to be bled for air. Start the engine and run for several minutes allowing the engine to reach operating temperature. Once operating temperature is reached, blip the throttle 3 or 4 times. This will purge the air out of the cooling system.
Turn engine off. Add coolant as needed to radiator and coolant reservoir. Re-install radiator cap.
Install all fairings and ride 
You may need to dispose of your used coolant in a special manner. Check your local laws.
badfish'05 600RR Purple/Black |  |