1994 RVF400R Build Project

The electric pump weighs 0.8 pounds. Haven't weighed the stock water pump, but I know it's heavier than that. The biggest thing is not using the engine to drive the pump. Evan really wants to see the difference in HP on the dyno. We don't really have an idea of how much load the pump puts on the engine, only the dyno can show us that. I know it's kind of crazy at this point, but like Evan said, you've come this far, may as well go all the way. It's only money

 

'"diminishing returns" may apply at this point ?

 

Man, I hope I never lose my passion and curiosity when I get up in years.

 

Just got off the phone with the boys. The pump arrived yesterday and Rob and Phil are looking at what is going to be required to machine the block off plate for the engine and machine it so that it can be used as the mount for the pump too. Also trying to determine the best way to orient the pump for the coolant tubes and how much effort is going to be involved in that. I'm pissed I can't be there to participate in person, but that's life.

 

So they would vary the voltage to the DC motor to vary the pump speed, right? I guess they could map the controller to vary the voltage to follow the average time it takes for the bike to hit 170F -ish. Very interesting to think about. I love this stuff.

 

I don't think I'm going to go that route. The controller is big and it's not supposed to be installed in direct sunlight, actually made for inside of a car. Just spent an hour going over the options with Phil...he wanted to use the controller, why I asked?....His answer, because it's badass. Ummmm, not convinced, lol.

After reading a bunch of information from the pump manufacturer, there are a few recommended options for running the pump continuously. I can install a bypass line from the thermo housing to the pump inlet and leave the thermostat stock, or drill two 1/8" bypass holes in the thermostat plate and not run the bypass line and it should work fine. I'm leaning towards keeping it simple and just drilling the two 1/8" bypass holes in the thermostat plate.

Right now, the biggest thing is getting the block off plate/pump mount machined and the pump mounted and oriented so that the hose and coolant tubes can be connected. Once that is done, the thermostat plate can be drilled and reinstalled, topping off the coolant, and the wiring connected for a test. I can source the thermostat and the housing cover o-ring for $36 from Honda.

 

Yes, the motor speed is varied, based upon a signal from a temp sensor in the coolant. It can also control the fan operation.

 

You mean up in years like when you hit 40.......? Like me. lol. Getting old is not for the meek.

 

It's all in the genes, you either have them, or you don't.

 

True but there is a lot you can do with diet exercise and life style that is part of the total equation.

 

You know I was just thinking about this again when I got up from being in front of the stupid computer for over an hour, I was a little stiff. Going to be 63 this summer, time marches on. But I do keep active, try and exercise everyday. I have not done a track day in almost 2 years! Wondering if I should sell the track bike......... I need new slicks, my rear tire warmer I had to hot wire to the high setting, need a new track helmet, my kangaroo leathers are near the end of their life, my held gloves are worn out, probably only 1 get off left in them. Trailer needs tires....... Things that wake me up at 4am other than that once in the middle of the night pee. lol

 

I gotta say, you shouldn't concern yourself with any of this age bullshit. Life really is too short. If you're happy, screw it, you're doing it right. I am in the higher atmosphere of 50's and still can ride a sportbike without discomfort. The day will come when that isn't the case, but it sure isn't today.

 

I hear you. I knew a guy who was well into his 70's and still could ride A on the track. I have been riding off road more than anything, not doing the big jumps anymore but I still get around. Keeps me in shape. That and mountain climbing which I will never stop.