i just picked up a '95 cbr with 17,000 miles for 2k and as i was riding it home, i thought i had just picked up a fantastic deal. after pulling into my garage, i noticed that coolant was bleeding out from under the bike. i honestly know nothing about diagnosing or fixing mechanical things and i was wondering if anyone might know what could cause something like this. i called the guy i bought it from and he swears that he had never had a problem with this before. i did a search and no luck.. am i facing a huge problem here?

thanks in advance =)

 

If you don't have basic tools, the bike comes with (if they're still there) enough tools to be able to take off the fairings. The tools are located behind the left side cover under the seat.The thing to do is to try to determine where the leak is coming from. Could be as simple as a loose hose. Once you're able to determine where it's coming from, if you don't know what is, post a picture here and I'm sure you can get some help here.

Good luck.

 

Also check to see that the radiator has not been punctured by a stone, which is another common cause of leaks.



[IMG]local://upfiles/9500/06155C37C83F46B8AA08F46CB16757CE.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/9500/360685B7DDF1411FB74F1A6927A29E84.jpg[/IMG]

 

I've got the same problem except I actually know where it's coming from...the water pump. Just take the lower fairings off and idle the bike until it leaks out coolant.

 

As do I! But I know where mine is leaking from as well. I need new hoses coming from the water pump. I tried tightening up the clamps to no avail. It been sitting for about 3 months and its probably only dripped but 3-4 drips. But I need to get it fixed.

 

Check all hoses, replace thermostat and check the radiator for leaks. Those F3's run hotter than hell and I wouldn't be surprised if you need a bit of replacing.

Is the coolant cycling? If it's not or looks dirty, flush it. Check water pump for smooth bearing operation.

Even if it's any 1 of these problems, the most expensive part is a water pum, maybe $50. Thermo is $30. Hoses, $7 a piece.

I would be willing to guess one of two things.

Either there are cracks in the hoses or water pump/thermo is bad and not allowing coolant to cycle making

 

There is a weep hole on the bottom side of the water pump. If you have leaks from coming from this... time to replace the water pump.

 

thanks for the replies guys. if it so happens that the problems stem from the water pump or surrounding gizmos, how difficult would it be to replace/repair these things myself? i am a broke student afterall..

 

I think it's an 8mm socket for the water pump/thermo. And either a 6mmsocket or a standard screwdriver for the hose clamps.

Easy peasy japanesy.

 

Also need to drain the radiator among other things. Get a clymer manual, it tells you all the steps