Hey guys, have a 2004 VFR800. 16000 miles. Just started to notice some coolant leaking from overflow tube by kick stand. Just a few drops. Never had any problems with over heating or never had the rad flushed/filled or any rad work done for that matter. I have checked over all the lines, fittings and do not see any issues. What would cause this to happen ? Is it something I should be concerned with ? Anything you can suggest I should do/try to prevent/stop the leak. Any info is appreciated, you guys are awesome..............................thanks.
I think you need to verify the source of the leak. If the overflow is from the reservoir tank, then that tank must be full and that means the radiator is starting to empty. That would point to a radiator cap failure (liquid not being sucked back into the radiator as it cools). If the cap fails to hold pressure the liquid in the system can boil more easily and the steam can push coolant out of the reservoir but it won't necessarily fill up. The other leak that can happen is from the coolant hoses in the v around the thermostat; they can start to weep with age, and the liquid will come out from the drain hole in the v, but might dribble down and appear near the kickstand. These might respond to some clamp tightening, or you might need to replace the hoses (I had to do the latter). If so, prepare for some surgery as that part of the system is accessible after you have removed the airbox and throttle bodies. And if you go that far, put in a new thermostat at the same time.
