KTM 144 SX - Manual (Page 29)

ENGLISH
28
Cooling system
The water pump [1] in the engine circulates the cooling liquid. The cooling
liquid is cooled by the air stream. This means that the cooling effect decreases
with the traveling speed. Dirty radiators additionally reduce the cooling effect.
Pressure induced by heating of the coolant in the system is controlled by a
valve in the radiator cap [2]; a water temperature rising up to 120° C
(248° F) is admissible, without fear of problems.
– If possible, always check level of cooling liquid when engine is cold. If
you have to open the radiator cap [2] when the engine is hot, use a rag to
cover the cap and open slowly to release pressure.
Caution - scalding hazard.
– Do not detach any radiator hoses while the engine is hot. The escaping
hot coolant and the steam may cause serious burns.
– In case you get burnt, hold the affected part of your body under running
cold water right away.
– Coolant is toxic. Keep the coolant out of the reach of children.
– In case coolant is ingested, consult a doctor immediately.
– If coolant gets into your eyes, rinse them out with water immediately and
go see a doctor.
Use a mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50% distilled water for the cooling
liquid. The antifreeze should be designed for temperatures of at least -25°C.
This mixture offers frost protection as well as good corrosion protection and
should not be replaced by water alone.
For the cooling system, use only with high-grade antifreeze (e.g. Motorex Anti-
Freeze). Using lower-grade antifreeze agents can cause corrosion and coolant
foaming.
Checking the coolant level
The coolant should be 10 mm (0.4 in) above the radiator fins when the engine
is cold (see diagram). In the event of the coolant being drained, always fill
and bleed the system.
If possible, always check the level of cooling liquid when the engine is cold.
If you have to open the radiator cap when the engine is hot, use a rag to cover
the cap and open slowly to release pressure.
10 mm
when engine ist cold
MAINTENANCE WORK ON CHASSIS AND ENGINE
»
Checking spoke tension
The correct spoke tension is very important for the stability of the wheels and
thus for riding safety. A loose spoke causes the wheel to become
unbalanced and before long other spokes will have come loose. Check spoke
tension, especially on a new motorcycle, at regular intervals. For checking,
tap on each spoke with the blade of a screwdriver (see photo). A clear tone
must be the result. Dull tones are indicators of loose spokes. If necessary,
have the spokes retightened and the wheel centered by a KTM dealer.
– Spokes can tear if you continue to ride with them loose. This may lead to
an unstable handling of your motorcycle.
– Excessively tensioned spokes may rupture due to local overloading.The
spokes must be tensioned to 5 Nm.
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1
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