77 GL1000 - drain old coolant for winter storage?

[Ed Fleming]

I just got my first Goldwing - a 1977 GL1000. It has sat around inside a heated shop for 3-4 years (at least). I probably will not be doing a whole lot on it this winter, but am concerned about possible freezing, since it is now in my garage up here in NH. Should I drain the cooling system just in case. BTW, I looked at the coolant overflow jug under the right tank panel, and see that it is empty, so I'm not sure how much coolant is in this bike. Any suggestions?

 

[flash2002]

Hi, If your not shure how old the coolant is, I would change it, at lease you will know it's new, why take a chance.

 

[dan filipi]

I'm not up on this cold country stuff but isn't antifreeze suppose to prevent the coolant from freezing which could crack the block?
Why would you not want to have antifreeze in it?

 

[mcgovern61]

I'm not up on this cold country stuff but isn't antifreeze suppose to prevent the coolant from freezing which could crack the block?
Why would you not want to have antifreeze in it?

50/50 mix will keep it from freezing. I am not fond of leaving an engine dry in the winter, good way for your seals to dry up.

 

[backlander]

It also leaves the system open for rust and corrosion to form.

 

[Ed Fleming]

Thanks! I think you're right - leaving it dry might allow corrosion etc. I will change it, but is there a recommended coolant? I have heard that car antifreeze should not be used because silicates (or is it silicon?) in it causes the water pump to wear out prematurely.

 

[backlander]

Just make sure it's non-silicate antifreeze. I use Prestone 50/50 mix from Walmart. Says non-silicate on the back.

 

[brianinpa]

herry_2 » Tue Dec 17, 2013 3:08 am[/url]":2qp75s4c]
Which Self storage in Rothwell facility is the cheaper one? I heard a lot about them but all I know is costly. I'll be happy if you tell me a cheaper option.

Huh?

(link in quote disabled-aapple)

 

[AApple]

Disregard that post....a spammer got by us for a few minutes. :doh: :doh:

 

[Omega Man]

Would draining affect the head gaskets(dry them out)?