Coolant - noddy question

[5hort5]

Still going round checking things on this recently purchased SV curvey. I've just reinstalled the clutch cover and have moved onto other things. The coolant level is giving me a question though, I can't see anything in the viewing window so am unsure if it has some in, none in or to much in, is there any way of telling apart from the little window? Rocking it bike side to side doesn't seem to show anything.
Thanks

[2hys]

i cant see anything through mine ether i just lift the tank and dip my little finger in there, if it comes out wet then alls good!! hth

[Alpinestarhero]

I have trouble seeing anything. I check the fan comes on and cuts in and out in trafic; if so, the engine is cooling properly and hence there must be enough coolant. You tried shining a bright torch there?

[sayani]

I can't see anything either and planning to drain and replace the coolant in mine today if I get time. There's a good guide on it here:

http://forum.svrider.com/showthread.php?t=54075

[5hort5]

Thanks, I went for the simple option tbh, stuck my finger in and nothing then notcied the window was near the bottom of the filler so stuck a straw in, held the end closed and pulled it out again, this had a level and measured it off against the filler cap. All is well :-)

[wattyfred89]

my coolant does need regular topping up

[madnlooney]

while on the subject of coolent and not wanting to hijack the thread, what colour coolant is the best to use? im sure i have the red in mine

[5hort5]

lol mine was a nuclear waste yellow colour

[Alpinestarhero]

My dad put in green, i topped up with some fluorescent orange stuff

Just a side note, engine cooling is aided by engine oil, so for peace of mind keep your oil topped up towards the upper limit (not nessacerily at it)

[Icanopit]

Just an observation, most modern coolants/anti-freeze change colour when contaminated in particular Ford type's flouro green/yellow changes to red/brown colour when contaminated. Cheaper to change the coolant rather than have a problem. Further IF you have added the fluid you can trust whats in the system.
JOHN

[boot]

My dad put in green, i topped up with some fluorescent orange stuff

I would advise you drain and replace with only red.

The green has a 2 year life, red is long-life and is rated for 5 years.

Mixing the two different types causes a reaction between them, and waxy deposits then build up in the system, blocking the radiator and even hoses.