cooling system question '97 VLX 600

[jpr1968]

It's not the over temp light light that comes on with ignition, it's the oil pressure light. Bypassing the fan switch with a toggle switch is just a bandaid. IF the sensor isn't working replace it. Did you check the radiator cap yet?

[Raven080510]

I could have sworn the service manual said stated that the temp light should come on for 2 seconds after turning the key on. You're right about the oil light, but it doesn't go off until the bike is started since there is no oil pressure until the engine has been started. I agree that if the switch is bad it needs replaced. However, not everyone has the funds readily available to drop on a new fan switch, and the alternative route with the bypass of the switch is a good short term alternative. My radiator cap checked out okay.


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[gmck]

I took my thermoswitch out and tested it in hot water with my meter. Then since Honda didn't stock one and was stupid expensive I took it to OReilies and found one from a car (honda civic I think) that would fit for about $10. it used two wires instead of one so I made a jumper wire to ground. Been working great for over a year now. Good time to change coolant too.

[CavemanBen]

Good time to change coolant too.

agreed, and you might as well take a garden hose and blow out the radiator while its off, get the debris out of it

[CavemanBen]

just checked on the temp light, sry for the confusion.

on the aero both temp and oil lights come on, but on the 600vlx ONLY my oil light came on, NOT the temp

[Raven080510]

Thanks for clearing that up Caveman. I did the same with the switch from O'Reiley's lol, and went ahead while I had the switch out and flushed her out.


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[Raven080510]

I know we've bounced back and forth on this topic of the temp light. However, after re-reading page 19-13 in my service manual, it does say that the temp light IS supposed to 'come on for a few seconds then should disappear soon.' They also give instructions to troubleshoot the fact that it doesn't come on. Anyway, regardless of that issue, the fan is operational now. Thanks for the help, fellers.