Rad Matrix Blocked

Discussion in 'Speed Triple' started by speeder, Apr 1, 2019.

  1. speeder

    speeder Noble Member

    Jan 3, 2019
    408
    313
    dorset
    Had a close look at my radiator today and noticed the lower central portion to be badly blocked with road crud.
    I tried poking it out with a piece of fine wire but that takes ages.
    Difficult to get a pressure washer in from behind so it looks like the only real way would be to remove the rad first.
    I have fitted a mudguard extender but l'm not sure it does much.
    The bike is ridden in all weather's so it looks like it could be a recurring problem.
    Anybody got any brilliant ideas for easy cleaning?
     
  2. crispey

    crispey crispey creme de la creme

    Nov 6, 2014
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    Not for cleaning I’m afraid but can you get a radiator guard for it?
     
  3. Sprinter

    Sprinter Kinigit

    Aug 17, 2014
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    I looked at a "fender"extender, and came to the conclusion that it would make little difference because the through comes off the tyre lower than even the extender reaches.I would think that the extender would have to come down to below 8 o clock. RTR-70-SE_side-1200x800.jpg

    Would a normal hose be more easily accessible, then a long bristled brush?
     
  4. speeder

    speeder Noble Member

    Jan 3, 2019
    408
    313
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    Think you're right, it's like compacted talcum powder, gets there with the water which dries out leaving the hard dust in the matrix.
    I'll try softening wit water and then try to jet it out with a hose.
    The oil cooler is in an even worse position, so l made a guard to protect it from stones etc.
     
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  5. Red Thunder

    Red Thunder Crème de la Crème

    Dec 2, 2014
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    Let the water soak in and soften the crud, then use a toothbrush or similar it not too firm a bristle
     
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  6. Callumity

    Callumity Elite Member

    Feb 25, 2017
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    Nr Biggar
    VERY soapy water from a spray bottle and give it a couple of applications 15 mins apart then hose it down.....repeat as necessary. It should not need violence!
     
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  7. speeder

    speeder Noble Member

    Jan 3, 2019
    408
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    Thanks to you and red, I'll give it a go.
    Got to be a better option than draining and removing the rad.
     
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  8. mikerj

    mikerj New Member

    Jun 9, 2018
    13
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    Devon, UK
    A household steam cleaner is quite effective for jobs like these.
     
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  9. speeder

    speeder Noble Member

    Jan 3, 2019
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    Never thought of that.....probably be good for loosening the crap up. Thanks.
     
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  10. topbanana0

    topbanana0 Well-Known Member

    Mar 27, 2016
    226
    93
    South Wales
    I would be carful using a pressure washer on the rad, you could easily bend the fins, which will affect air flow and reduce cooling.
     
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  11. speeder

    speeder Noble Member

    Jan 3, 2019
    408
    313
    dorset
    Well finally got round to sorting it; l worked soapy water into the matrix using a soft brush, let it soak to soften up the dirt an then hosed it out with the garden hose set on a fine jet.
    The amount of crap that came out was surprising. Finished off blowing it over with a air line.
    I can now see right through the rad using a strong light.
    I would say this is essential maintenance fo bikes used year round.
    Bring on the (hopefully) hot summer now!
     
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