Search Sort Posts:  Oldest to newest Newest to oldest

10-02-2009, 8:21 PM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found I have in front of me a fan switch from a 650 and a Kemparts #RF3 Rad Fan Switch to fit '80s Honda Civic.They are, for all intents and purposes, identical. The important dimensions match (threads, hex for wrench, length &c) and the only difference is that the Honda switch has brown epoxy and has the little plastic rings on the terminals while the Kemparts one has black epoxy. The biggest difference is that the Kemparts switch only cost me $35 and change (Cdn) as opposed to nearly $75 for the Honda part (online price, not including shipping). Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

10-02-2009, 8:29 PM Iron272 Joined on 06-18-2009 Eastern Pa Posts 1,029 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found you may even be able to beat that price take just the oem # to a parts store don't tell them what it is for and let them cross reference it out and you may find it cheaper. That is what I did for the temp sensor for a 650 and got it down to 10.65 fro 48 at Honda LOL Iron272 - AKA CHROME Live Free CX650c but is going to be my own (cx650interstate PARTIALLY DONE LOL)    Report

10-03-2009, 5:44 AM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Don't forget that I'm talking about $35 Canadian instead ot $75 US. With the dollar difference that works out to about half price. In the thread about fan switches on nakedgoldwings.com, WingerDave said "The fan switch off of a 1980 Honda Civic is the same range and, basically, exactly the same unit BUT..... a smaller thread (2mm smaller)." I dug out my spare good used GoldWing switch and compared it to one of my non-working CX650 switches and found that they looked pretty much the same except the GoldWing one is larger and has 18mm threads while the one from the 650 has 16mm threads. Bingo!!!!  Then I visited my friendly neighbourhood auto parts man (the same one who helped me figure out which heater hose to cut up for my rad hoses and a bunch of other stuff like that over the years). He looked up the Civic switch and the pic looked just like the dead one I had brought to show him so he ordered one for me. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

10-03-2009, 5:57 AM Iron272 Joined on 06-18-2009 Eastern Pa Posts 1,029 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found im just saying that sometimes you can do even better buy letting the computer do the cross reference buy the OEM # and will give you a list and then can save even more Iron272 - AKA CHROME Live Free CX650c but is going to be my own (cx650interstate PARTIALLY DONE LOL)    Report

10-03-2009, 9:02 AM pwtsvwt Joined on 08-10-2008 Richfield, NC, USA Posts 664 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found AutoZone part number SW504 $15.99 (U.S.) For the 500's - If the thread is smaller than the radiator drain plug, find a threaded insert and use teflon tape on the external threads. Bought on Craigslist - Restored from Ebay: 82 GL500I - now without the "I" -------------------------------------------------------------- I had all my ducks in a row, but they wondered off!    Report

03-27-2010, 8:56 PM domroy Joined on 04-19-2009 Montreal Posts 44 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Salut, I have purchased the SW504 type of fan switch this winter and found that, in trying to do the replacement, the rubber housing with the connectors is of a different dimension... When comparing the original fan switch with the new fan switch SW504, the distance between the two pins is not exactly the same, such that it was not a easy fit.  Things got more difficult still when I added the two wires that are meant to run up to a manual switch on the handlebars. I think I connected it all as good as I could, but it sure isn't stock anymore. I could have done a better job in picking the color of my wires to the switch... dom "no expectations, no disappointments" Red CX500 1982 (pictured) Grey CX500 1982 ("staritng" on youtube) White CX650E 1983    Report

03-28-2010, 6:50 AM Spacetiger Joined on 05-16-2009 Chantilly, VA Posts 1,353 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Bob, Do you know what the fan temp range is (on temp, off temp). For that matter, does anyone know what the on and off temp is for the 650? Interesting that there is commonality in the termal dept from the bike and car lineup of that era. Jerry 90 PC 800 (commuting steed) 82 GL500I (50+mpg, great bike) 66 BMW R 50/2 (No brakes/HP) 80 CX500C (Loved this bike) 74 CB360 (Fun; but too small) 79 CX500D (40,000+ mi in 3 years) 76 CB550 (step up from 200cc) 74 KZ200 (1st bike!)    Report

03-28-2010, 7:25 AM timk Joined on 02-26-2008 Hubbard Oregon Posts 519 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Spacetiger wrote: Interesting that there is commonality in the termal dept from the bike and car lineup of that era. --------- Must have someting to do with the temp at which water / coolant boils back in the early 80's.... ha ha Couple GL's and CX650 ... everythings in work....    Report

03-28-2010, 8:08 AM pwtsvwt Joined on 08-10-2008 Richfield, NC, USA Posts 664 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found "When comparing the original fan switch with the new fan switch SW504, the distance between the two pins is not exactly the same, such that it was not a easy fit.  Things got more difficult still when I added the two wires that are meant to run up to a manual switch on the handlebars." Auto parts stores sell the bullet connectors.  Make short patch cords, and add your extra wiring to the patches.  The OEM harness remains undisturbed, and connector spacing is no longer an issue. Bought on Craigslist - Restored from Ebay: 82 GL500I - now without the "I" -------------------------------------------------------------- I had all my ducks in a row, but they wondered off!    Report

03-28-2010, 9:11 AM Spacetiger Joined on 05-16-2009 Chantilly, VA Posts 1,353 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found timk - okay smarty pants... I ment the dimentions, threading, etc. Jerry 90 PC 800 (commuting steed) 82 GL500I (50+mpg, great bike) 66 BMW R 50/2 (No brakes/HP) 80 CX500C (Loved this bike) 74 CB360 (Fun; but too small) 79 CX500D (40,000+ mi in 3 years) 76 CB550 (step up from 200cc) 74 KZ200 (1st bike!)    Report

03-28-2010, 6:26 PM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found I figure Honda's engineers decided to use as many off the shelf parts as possible so they could spend their budget on designing other parts that were unique to these models. After all, why re-invent the wheel? I have no idea what the fan on/off temps are because it only came on once or twice and then it got to cold out for it to come on again before I put it away while I recover from my surgery. I think it seemed pretty normal, though. I will probably find out in a few weeks, though, because I will be using it later in the spring than normal. If I remember to come back to this thread post what it does I will have to tell you in degrees because Eccles has an aftermarket temp gauge and I'm not sure where it relates to the original one. I think the temps for the original switch are in the FSM. BTW: The one I bought works perfectly with the original plug. With the amount of salt impregnated dirt that makes it through my rad to collect between it & the engine over a typical winter I wouldn't want to have ordinary bullet connectors on there. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-29-2010, 1:00 AM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found 650,s only fan cuts in when coolant temperatures  are between 98c and 102c fan cuts out at coolant temperatures of 93c and 97c when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-29-2010, 2:31 AM Spacetiger Joined on 05-16-2009 Chantilly, VA Posts 1,353 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Wow bandit, that seems really high. 100C = boiling water (212F) not under pressure. If the thermostat is opening at 170ish, then the system is designed to get much hotter before cooling help comes from the fan. It might be worth looking into the civic switch if it has lower temp on and off temps. Jerry 90 PC 800 (commuting steed) 82 GL500I (50+mpg, great bike) 66 BMW R 50/2 (No brakes/HP) 80 CX500C (Loved this bike) 74 CB360 (Fun; but too small) 79 CX500D (40,000+ mi in 3 years) 76 CB550 (step up from 200cc) 74 KZ200 (1st bike!)    Report

03-29-2010, 3:13 AM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Spacetiger wrote: Wow bandit, that seems really high. 100C = boiling water (212F) not under pressure. If the thermostat is opening at 170ish, then the system is designed to get much hotter before cooling help comes from the fan. It might be worth looking into the civic switch if it has lower temp on and off temps. Jerry i thought the same jerry. you can see why new 650 owners get a bit perturbed when their gauge appears its going to shoot off the scale when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-29-2010, 8:40 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found If I ever owned a Cx650 I think would use one of the temp switches I use on my Electric Fan conversions. http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=209 Mounted on the Radiator. It cuts in just after the temp gauge reads above nominal and back out again just under it.I think Honda got it wrong in this instance.It's been quite often reported that the 650s go through Stators faster than the 500s,this may be a contributory factor.Also stater clutches may suffer from the oil being run hotter than it should be? My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

03-29-2010, 10:03 AM Panther Joined on 05-09-2006 Las Vegas, NV Posts 1,264 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Shep wrote: It cuts in just after the temp gauge reads above nominal and back out again just under it.I think Honda got it wrong in this instance.It's been quite often reported that the 650s go through Stators faster than the 500s,this may be a contributory factor.Also stater clutches may suffer from the oil being run hotter than it should be? I've been thinking about going to yours too. and using the fan switch hole for a second temp gauge. (actually, using the Factory gauge as a radiator output gauge and a Good gauge for the engine temp. with degree marks on it.) I think the starter clutch problems on the 650 is more related to the way the starter is grounded, and the extra effort starting them up takes. not the oil. but I might help it along a little. Peace & Light >^..^< .......... '83 GL650swi "My Little Grey Lady" '82 GL500swi parts bike '78 DT175 '86 LS650 Milady's bike    Report

03-29-2010, 7:11 PM Spacetiger Joined on 05-16-2009 Chantilly, VA Posts 1,353 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Actually, I found the temp sensor under the thermostat has the same threading to allow you to place the fan switch there so it is exposed to the collant before routing to the radiator. You could place the temp elsewhere or put a T fitting to allow both to fit via this port (thats what I did). Based on the thread and my experience, I may look for a different switch to lower the on-off temps. Jerry 90 PC 800 (commuting steed) 82 GL500I (50+mpg, great bike) 66 BMW R 50/2 (No brakes/HP) 80 CX500C (Loved this bike) 74 CB360 (Fun; but too small) 79 CX500D (40,000+ mi in 3 years) 76 CB550 (step up from 200cc) 74 KZ200 (1st bike!)    Report

03-29-2010, 8:08 PM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Spacetiger wrote: Actually, I found the temp sensor under the thermostat has the same threading to allow you to place the fan switch there so it is exposed to the collant before routing to the radiator. The coolant enters the rad at the bottom so having the fan switch at the bottom of the rad makes sure the fan will turn on when the coolant entering the rad is hot enough to need it. The coolant entering the thermostat has been cooled by the rad. It should never be hot enough to turn on the fan. The temperature gauge is there primarily to let you know when the engine has warmed the coolant up enough to open the thermostat. An engine operates most efficiently within a narrow range of temperatures. The coolant temperature can be controlled much more closely with an electric fan controlled by a temperature sensitive switch on the radiator working in conjunction with a thermostatic valve that limits coolant flow when the temperature is too low than it can by a fan that runs at half engine speed all the time and a thermostat. That means that the electric fan model can be run much closer to its optimum temperature more of the time. If you lower the fan temperatures the engine's efficiency will decrease and you will burn more fuel for less power. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-29-2010, 8:33 PM pwtsvwt Joined on 08-10-2008 Richfield, NC, USA Posts 664 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Coolant is always taken from a radiator at the bottom, and re-enters it at the top.  If not, and there were air at the top of the radiator, no coolant would be pulled from it. Radiator bottom outlet - to - water pump, water pump - to - cylinders & heads, cylinders & heads - to - thermostat, thermostat - to - radiator top inlet. Every water cooled engine, that I know of, operates this way. Bought on Craigslist - Restored from Ebay: 82 GL500I - now without the "I" -------------------------------------------------------------- I had all my ducks in a row, but they wondered off!    Report

03-29-2010, 8:55 PM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found I could be mistaken about this but when the thermostat opens doesn't the transfer pipe become hot at the end near the pump first, then farther along the pipe until the rad warms up starting at the bottom? This would indicate that the pump draws hot coolant out of the engine and pumps it into the bottom of the rad. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-29-2010, 9:55 PM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Sidecar Bob wrote: I could be mistaken about this but when the thermostat opens doesn't the transfer pipe become hot at the end near the pump first, then farther along the pipe until the rad warms up starting at the bottom? This would indicate that the pump draws hot coolant out of the engine and pumps it into the bottom of the rad. bob,my transfer pipe starts to get hot at the rad end first,then travels backwards, when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-29-2010, 9:57 PM pwtsvwt Joined on 08-10-2008 Richfield, NC, USA Posts 664 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Sidecar Bob wrote: I could be mistaken about this but when the thermostat opens doesn't the transfer pipe become hot at the end near the pump first, then farther along the pipe until the rad warms up starting at the bottom? This would indicate that the pump draws hot coolant out of the engine and pumps it into the bottom of the rad. An impeller type pump receives fluid at its center, and 'slings' it outward.  Take a look at where the transfer pipe casting in the pump cover ends up.  At the center of the pump (impeller).  The impeller slings the coolant outward to the two internal passages, where it is then directed to the cylinders & heads.  External pipes take the coolant from the heads, through the t.stat housing, and then to the radiator. Bought on Craigslist - Restored from Ebay: 82 GL500I - now without the "I" -------------------------------------------------------------- I had all my ducks in a row, but they wondered off!    Report

03-30-2010, 2:31 AM Panther Joined on 05-09-2006 Las Vegas, NV Posts 1,264 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found There are some modern cars that have the flow from bottom to top, but the thermostat is on the Lower hose connection. Ours are top to bottom. You only want your fan to come on IF the radiator isn't cooling the system down enough with regular air flow. So, the sensor is on the output side core end/tank. not the input. Peace & Light >^..^< .......... '83 GL650swi "My Little Grey Lady" '82 GL500swi parts bike '78 DT175 '86 LS650 Milady's bike    Report

03-30-2010, 2:47 AM Spacetiger Joined on 05-16-2009 Chantilly, VA Posts 1,353 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found So, I tink I'm on the smae page as you Panther. Our coolant comes from the engine through the thermostat and enters the radiator from the top. It falls through the radiator getting cooled and is sucked from the bottom of the radiator back into the engine. So, the qickest point to measure the hot coolant is as it leaves the engine heading over to the radiator to be cooled. Is this how you see it working? Jerry 90 PC 800 (commuting steed) 82 GL500I (50+mpg, great bike) 66 BMW R 50/2 (No brakes/HP) 80 CX500C (Loved this bike) 74 CB360 (Fun; but too small) 79 CX500D (40,000+ mi in 3 years) 76 CB550 (step up from 200cc) 74 KZ200 (1st bike!)    Report

03-30-2010, 3:15 AM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found copied from one of sheps pages...................... If and when the Thermostat opens the coolant flows from the bottom of the Radiator through the metal coolant pipe at the side of the engine.If this does NOT get warm then you know the coolant is not flowing even without taking the Radiator cap off. when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-30-2010, 4:10 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  spanish bandit wrote: copied from one of sheps pages...................... If and when the Thermostat opens the coolant flows from the bottom of the Radiator through the metal coolant pipe at the side of the engine.If this does NOT get warm then you know the coolant is not flowing even without taking the Radiator cap off. Also, And although the pictures shows a movement of Hot and cool fluid going from the Expansion bottle in practice a correctly running cooling system on these bikes it should never happen as the coolant temp/pressure would have to exceed the Radiator cap valve opening parameters and mine never have on either of my CX.I tested this extensively when researching my Electric fan conversion using temp sensing probe and Infra red -temp gun. Having re-built both my engines from the crank up I manually cleaned and then power washed,high pressure air cleaned and had the crank cases vapour blasted prior to re-fit and fully de-scaled the radiators internally using Vinegar flushes and distilled water so I know both engines have spotless cooling systems.     My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

03-30-2010, 6:32 AM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found OK, you guys are right about the direction of flow from the pump. It was almost 1AM when I posed that ;-) But its morning now, I am wide awake and in full control of my faculties and I have to disagree with you once again, Shep, about the recovery tank. In a normally functioning coolant recovery system the level of coolant in the recovery tank will rise when the engine approaches optimum operating temperature and lower when the engine cools after it is shut off. The rad cap has 2 pressure dependent (spring loaded) one way valves built into it. As the coolant warms up to the engine's optimum operating temperature it expands and the pressure increases. When the pressure in the rad exceeds the cap's rated pressure the pressure valve is forced open and coolant moves from the rad to the recovery tank, regulating the pressure in the rad at the optimum for efficient operation. When the engine is shut off and the coolant cools down the pressure in the cooling system decreases and the cap's recovery valve is forced open by the now greater pressure in the recovery tank so that coolant can be drawn from the tank back to the rad. If the level in your bike's (or car's) recovery tank does not rise when the engine warms up or drop after the engine cools there is something wrong. Either the cap is not functioning properly, the hose between the rad and the tank is blocked or the tank's overflow hose is blocked, or the engine just isn't coming up to optimum operating temperature. If you don't believe me, read what it says here: http://www.homepages.donobi.net/sufuelpumps/Other_Subjects/Cooling_and_radiator/EXPANSION_TANKS_COOLANT_RECOVERY_SYSTEMS_AND.pdf Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-30-2010, 7:49 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found I totally disagree with your above conclusion Bob as far as the CX/GL motorcycles are concerned.It does not tally with my findings and I,"Know" my systems are optimal.I spent many hours testing and researching before I posted my electric Fan conversion and never once,even on bench test,with Mechanical fan or electric fan was the coolant expansion bottle used however I never let the temps reach the red-line static test which is when I would expect the expansion system kick in,but then I would know there was a fault with the cooling system. My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

03-30-2010, 9:25 AM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found When the temperature is above -10c the fluid level in my 650's tank rises by about 1/2" during my 25 minute drive to work and is back to where it was originally an hour later. I can tell this for sure because the tank is mounted on the side of the sidecar body where I can see it clearly from where I sit. This is the way the system is supposed to work. I'll say it again: If your coolant does not expand enough to raise the level in the recovery tank there is something wrong. I didn't come up with this on my own. I can find lots of explanations of how a coolant recovery cooling system works and they all agree. http://www.familycar.com/Classroom/CoolingSystem.htm Popular Science Mar. 1969 (Google Books) Automotive Fundamentals By Glen Merrill (Google Books) When you did all that work did you install a new rad cap? If the cap isn't working properly it can prevent the cooling system from working the way it should. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-30-2010, 1:20 PM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found My rad caps are good and tested as are my Thermostats.IIRC you have a 650 Bob.They are known to run hotter than the 500s hence there's a good chance your overflow system may well get used.Neither of my 500s use the overflow system and I repeat,there is nothing wrong with any part of my cooling systems.I also still believe that Honda got it wrong with the Temp sensor setting on the 650s with Electric fans.    I also run a Citroen ZX Turbo diesel car with 250,000+ miles on the clock.It uses one of the best known and most reliable and robust liquid cooled diesel engines ever made,the UXD(TUXD) and it's longevity has been put down to it being one of the 1st commercial diesel cars engines to use an,"Intercooler" running the engine around 10 deg below most car engines running temps of around 85/90 Deg C without loss of economy or performance.   If I ever get to own a Cx650 I have my temp sensor at the ready and would bypass the Honda one as my 1st job. My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

03-30-2010, 2:11 PM Panther Joined on 05-09-2006 Las Vegas, NV Posts 1,264 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found It is possible, with the small amount of coolant used in our bikes, and the slightly larger radiator on the 500's. along with the less amount of BTU's being extracted from the smaller engine. That a CX/GL500 with a Perfectly clean and efficient cooling system, may not have the expansion necessary to raise the cooling system PSI high enough to require any use of the coolant recovery bottle. As long as the thermostat is working properly, the engine will get up to operating temp, whether the radiator is a small metal pipe or a 10 gallon monstrosity. and if that radiator can dissipate the heat created from the motor fast enough, the system overall PSI may stay rather low. If it does not exceed our caps PSI rating. (13lbs?) then the coolant tank will not receive any overflow to recover. With a 650 motor, where the cooling system is the same capacity, but more of that coolant is in the cylinder liners. and the radiator is Slightly smaller, the system may more easily reach system PSI max. especially when it takes our fans so long to turn on. Who knows. Maybe Shep's systems are filled 2oz lower than your Hacks is. Won't effect the cooling capacity of our engines, and would be darn hard to see. but would make the system a little more likely to put some coolant into the recovery tank. And it there was a very small air leak at the under tank joint on Shep's bike. it could put just a couple oz of coolant in ti the First time it warmed up, and never bring it back. or use the recovery tank again. all without causing any harm for years to come. Peace & Light >^..^< .......... '83 GL650swi "My Little Grey Lady" '82 GL500swi parts bike '78 DT175 '86 LS650 Milady's bike    Report

03-30-2010, 2:40 PM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found And it there was a very small air leak at the under tank joint on Shep's bike. it could put just a couple oz of coolant in it the First time it warmed up, and never bring it back. or use the recovery tank again. all without causing any harm for years to come. There are no leaks in either of my CX500s and the radiator in my electric Fan converted one is filled very high to help actuate the thermal temp sensor better which is placed on the top outside of the rear of the Radiator My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

03-30-2010, 2:56 PM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Coolant is supposed to expand 10% at operating temperature (its in one of the links I posted above). That's a lot. If the thermostat & cap are both doing their job some coolant should get past the cap when its fully warmed up. I had a 500 for 5 years. Its tank wasn't as easy to see as the 650's so I didn't notice its level rising & falling all the time, but when I first fill a cooing system I keep an eye on it for a few days to make sure everything is OK and I know its level normally rose & fell too. And so does the level in the GoldWing's tank. How many 500 owners reading this can see the difference in the level in the coolant recovery tank between hot and cold? Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-31-2010, 3:57 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Just thought I'd mention Bob.I think I know where the anomaly is.You have a side car fitted.This will increase the load on your engine and it will be working much harder than a stock CX/GL even with your lower than average ambient temps the engine will be running warmer.I know of one CX with a side-car and the owner fitted an auxiliary radiator in the side-car which serves two purposes. 1: It brings the engine cooling back into spec and 2:It adds some comfort in the cold for the passengers. This will increase the longevity of the engine. I'm certain if you did something like this the overflow bottle would not be used as often or at all.This may not be a concern for you but just a thought :) I think some Triked CX owners fit an additional,"Oil cooler" to achieve the same effect.   My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

03-31-2010, 6:51 AM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Even if it is working harder, the temperature is controlled by the thermostat and at the temp where the thermostat stays fully open the coolant should have expanded by 10%. BTW: I ran my 'Wing solo for many years before I added the sidecar and I did not notice any difference in the engine temperature when I added it. As I said before: I would like to hear from other 500 owners. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

03-31-2010, 11:21 AM Randall-in-Mpls Joined on 07-06-2007 Minneapolis, MN Posts 2,629 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Mine rises 1/8" to 1/4" in the bottle.  It's a very subtle change.  Maybe it's happening , and Shep's just not seeing it. I colored the fill-line with a permanent marker, so I can see it through the neck of the bottle (with my amber coolant, I can't see the level from the outside.) R '78 CX500 - Black Maggot --> Green Grub / Yellow Grub / Red Grub ???    Report

03-31-2010, 11:33 AM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Randall-in-Mpls wrote: Mine rises 1/8" to 1/4" in the bottle.  It's a very subtle change.  Maybe it's happening , and Shep's just not seeing it. I colored the fill-line with a permanent marker, so I can see it through the neck of the bottle (with my amber coolant, I can't see the level from the outside.) R hi randall,sheps not looking at measurements,im pretty sure its a colour thing. he has one colour antifreeze,and a completely different colour in his expansion tank,,i think he is saying,they have never mixed when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-31-2010, 11:49 AM Randall-in-Mpls Joined on 07-06-2007 Minneapolis, MN Posts 2,629 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Try this experiment:  Take a pint of one color coolant, and drop a teaspoon of another color into it.  Do you see any change?  Even better, start with a pint of clean water.  Once it diffuses, you still won't see a change. With the small amount of exchange relative to the amount in the bottle, judging by the color is completely worthless. R '78 CX500 - Black Maggot --> Green Grub / Yellow Grub / Red Grub ???    Report

03-31-2010, 11:58 AM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Randall-in-Mpls wrote: Try this experiment:  Take a pint of one color coolant, and drop a teaspoon of another color into it.  Do you see any change?  Even better, start with a pint of clean water.  Once it diffuses, you still won't see a change. With the small amount of exchange relative to the amount in the bottle, judging by the color is completely worthless. R over what period of time,because,if you use your bike every day,the concentration will become compounded,and it will be obvious.maybe not in one hour or one day,,,,,,,,,,,but after 6 months,i think you would see contamination when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-31-2010, 12:11 PM Randall-in-Mpls Joined on 07-06-2007 Minneapolis, MN Posts 2,629 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found I guess that depends on the colors he's using. R '78 CX500 - Black Maggot --> Green Grub / Yellow Grub / Red Grub ???    Report

03-31-2010, 12:21 PM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  Randall-in-Mpls wrote: I guess that depends on the colors he's using. R lets say..green and red if those colours mix in whatever amount over a   6 month period,near on every day.you must get cross contamination. 1/8 of an inch dumped in the expansion tank once a day,for 6 or 12 months.an experiment is not needed. i honestly think its a sealed system when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

03-31-2010, 12:29 PM Panther Joined on 05-09-2006 Las Vegas, NV Posts 1,264 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Just a FYI. Do not mix GM style long life coolant (usually orange) with Green coolant. It can turn to a kind of sludge. I use the new Prestone All makes All models. It can mix with one or the other. (but not both at once. lol.) Peace & Light >^..^< .......... '83 GL650swi "My Little Grey Lady" '82 GL500swi parts bike '78 DT175 '86 LS650 Milady's bike    Report

03-31-2010, 12:42 PM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found The coolant in the engine is Blue standard car coolant.The coolant in the expansion bottle has not been changed in over 14,000 miles and is Advanced Orange and still the same colour as when it was put in there several years a go. My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

04-01-2010, 6:35 PM coop88970 Joined on 01-09-2009 West Palm, FL Posts 51 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Does anyone know the Japanese engineers who designed the cooling system? Are they/he/she still alive? Are they necessarily Japanese? Maybe they could set the record straight. Anyway, I had heard about the sw504 from auto zone via the sab-mag website, I think. I ordered one for 15$ and noticed that it was stamped with temperatures (Celsius) of like 87 and 92, which I believe is lower than the stock cx650 temp on/offs of 92 and 97 (don't quote me on the numbers). I was a little concerned at first, but hopefully it won't decrease performance, efficiency, or longevity. I'll have to report my mileage for comparison if I ever get to ride the bike. Konbanwa! Coop 1983 CX650C 1976 CB750K 1975 CB125S2 1978 RM250C Wrenching is good food for the soul.    Report

04-01-2010, 11:21 PM Panther Joined on 05-09-2006 Las Vegas, NV Posts 1,264 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  coop88970 wrote: Does anyone know the Japanese engineers who designed the cooling system? Are they/he/she still alive? Are they necessarily Japanese? Maybe they could set the record straight. Anyway, I had heard about the sw504 from auto zone via the sab-mag website, I think. I ordered one for 15$ and noticed that it was stamped with temperatures (Celsius) of like 87 and 92, which I believe is lower than the stock cx650 temp on/offs of 92 and 97 (don't quote me on the numbers). I was a little concerned at first, but hopefully it won't decrease performance, efficiency, or longevity. I'll have to report my mileage for comparison if I ever get to ride the bike. Konbanwa! Coop So it turns on at 198f and off at 189 instead of on at 206f and off at 198. I think it will work just fine. Peace & Light >^..^< .......... '83 GL650swi "My Little Grey Lady" '82 GL500swi parts bike '78 DT175 '86 LS650 Milady's bike    Report

04-09-2010, 10:12 PM domroy Joined on 04-19-2009 Montreal Posts 44 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found Salut, Most interesting reading. I went for a ride last nigth on my CX650.  It was fitted with the fan switch that turns on at a lower temperature than the original (according to some of the previous threads). Although it was about 13'C last night, the fan turned on during the ride!  I was surprised to hear it go, it was small street riding and I kept it at higher rpms since last year it stalled on me on idle.  In any case when I heard the fan it was just above half on the temperature gauge, rather lower than what I read about the stock fan switch. Can someone weigh in on the possible pitfalls of a switch that turns on just over the middle temperature reading? This would mean that my engine will be running somewhere between 1/3 and 1/2 of the temp gauge reading most of the time. Less powerful and more thirsty?  Fan failure from overuse likely? I will double check my mileage performance as I start to use the bike more regularly. Thanks for the info and feedback. dom "no expectations, no disappointments" Red CX500 1982 (pictured) Grey CX500 1982 ("staritng" on youtube) White CX650E 1983    Report

04-10-2010, 3:01 AM Shep Joined on 01-30-2007 UK.2x1980CX500A Posts 7,648 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found I can only speak for my CX500 with an electric fan conversion and the engine runs perfectly with an increase in power over a Mechanical fan.The engines have quite a large temperature band where they will work ok.The closer the engine is to the lower figure the less the oil will have to work.Most four stroke engines have a nominal running temp of around between 75 to 85 Deg C.    IMHO you have nothing to worry about and I suspect it will benefit your engine.My old Turbo diesel car has an,"Inter-cooler" and the Citroen forums reckon it's this that aids the longevity of the engines and in my case 250,000 miles by keeping the engines at around 70 Deg C running temp. My 10 penn'th.   My Music http://www.reverbnation.com/pauldouglas/ Join Just In Case :) http://globalcxglvtwins.hostingdelivered.com/ Id quot circumiret, circumveniat    Report

04-10-2010, 5:30 AM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found What kind of mufflers are you running that you can hear the fan running while the bike is moving? When mine comes on I can only tell by feeling the warm air moving by my shins or if I am stopped. I an finally allowed on bikes again as of yesterday and I took a 30 Km trip but at +2c the likelihood of the fan coming on was pretty low. Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

05-03-2010, 6:17 PM Sidecar Bob Joined on 03-02-2006 Kawartha Lakes, Ontario Posts 1,899 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found It has warmed up enough for the fan to start coming on regularly so I have some data for the Kemparts #RF3 Rad Fan Switch to fit '80s Honda Civic: I have an aftermarket automotive electrical temperature gauge. Its sensor is installed in the thermostat housing where the original one went and it uses the same wire in the original harness. The gauge is mounted in the new instrument panel  made a couple of years ago. It has a terminal each for ground and + voltage and one for the sensor. When I installed it I still had incandescent bulbs in the tail lights and it didn't jump when I applied the brakes at idle so I assume that it has its own internal regulator. I have no idea whether it is accurate but it does seem consistent. It measures in an obscure scale called Fahrenheit but I will supply conversions to understandable units. According to the gauge, the fan comes on at approx. 220F (105C) and shuts off at approx. 205F (95C). P.333 (24-33) of the GL500/650 Shop Manual (in the '83 Addendum) says on at 88-92C and off at 83-87C (Bandit: where did you get the numbers you quoted?) Is a difference of 10-15C between the temperature at the bottom of the rad (where the switch is) and at the thermostat housing (where the gauge sender is) reasonable? I think so..... Mr. Honda ('83 GL1000/Dnepr) summer The Famous Eccles ('84 GX650EI/Velorex700) winter WHY I HAVEN"T BEEN AROUND MUCH LATELY    Report

05-03-2010, 11:04 PM spanish bandit Joined on 02-12-2009 southern spain Posts 5,010 Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found  spanish bandit wrote: 650,s only fan cuts in when coolant temperatures  are between 98c and 102c fan cuts out at coolant temperatures of 93c and 97c bob,its printed in my haynes, page 100,last 2 lines on that page when i feel the need,i do it,llego,ve 60,s ----------------------------- 2008.1982 honda gli silverwing [uk model ] 2010.1981 honda gli silverwing [uk model ]    Report

Page 1 of 2 (57 items) 1 2 >

Honda CX500 & G... » CX500 GL500 Tra... » Technical Help ... » Re: Fan switch for 650 - exact replacement found

(please select) Forums Home |- Search Forums |- Active Topics |- Unanswered Posts User Options |- Sign In |- Join this community |- Forgot Password CX500 GL500 Transverse Twins Discussion Forum |- General Discussion |- CX Customization and Modifications |- CX500 & CX650 Turbo Forum |- Travelling, Friends, and Trips |- Selling and Buying Forum |- Technical Help Forum Other Forums |- Off-Topic Posts |- Test Forum