Whats up everyone, just joined. Bought a 2003 F4i last week and unfortunately I've only ridden it once because I noticed it was leaking coolant. Pulled the fairings off today and found the problem. Apparently the guy I bought it from mounted the radiator wrong (you can see the zip tie in the picture below) and it was resting AGAINST the headers. Not the best place for a radiator. Anyway, I don't know if we have any radiator experts on the forum, but what do you guys think are my chances that this is repairable? It looks like its melted about 1/8-1/4 inch into the radiator. Worst case I'm going to need a new one. Any advice on where to get one for cheap? How difficult is the install? Thanks in advance.

 

Do not repair! buy a new one or a good condition one from ebay. Radiators arent something to redneck together, and whoever did that before you is an idiot in my book. There are some pretty inexpensive ones on ebay (relatively speaking). They arent hard to change in the least bit. Few hoses, couple bolts, and in your case-zip tie lol. I would not trust a rigged radiator at all, just spend the money and get a new one or good used one, you might regret it if you dont. Coolant is only second to oil and while youre changing it you get to treat your bike to a nice coolant flush haha. Good luck either way and keep us updated

 

Thanks for the reply. Took it out last night and got a local shop to repair it today for $40. Pressure tested and comes with a 9 month warranty. I would have just gotten a new one but the warranty made me feel better about it, plus this way i dont have to wait until next week to ride my bike. Just need some coolant and I'll be riding tonight.

 

Good deal man, The warranty thing is awesome, have fun!