How to Change the Coolant in a 1995 Honda CR500
Shop parts for a 1995 Honda CR500 Dirt Bike.
Proper cooling system maintenance on your 1995 Honda CR500 is essential for performance, longevity, and reliability—especially given the high-performance nature and air-cooled legacy that make the CR500 a legend in the dirt bike community. The following guide covers the full process of changing coolant in this iconic machine and notes special considerations specific to the model.
Why Coolant Change Matters
The CR500's powerful two-stroke engine generates significant heat. Over time, old coolant becomes less effective at heat dissipation and corrosion prevention, increasing the risk of engine damage. Regular coolant refresh helps protect the aluminum radiator and engine internals from overheating and corrosion.
Supplies Needed
- Fresh, ethylene glycol-based coolant – safe for aluminum radiators
- New water pump crush washer (Honda recommended part 90463-ML7-000 for best sealing)
- Catch pan for old coolant
- Funnel
- Shop towels or rags for cleanup
- Wrenches or sockets matching your bike's drain bolt and radiator cap
Step-by-Step Coolant Change for the CR500
- Ensure safety first: Let the engine cool fully before starting. Never open the radiator cap on a hot engine—danger of burns.
- Access the radiator: Remove the number plate and any side panels that block access to the radiator cap and lower radiator area.
- Open the radiator cap: Slowly turn counterclockwise to relieve internal pressure, then remove completely.
- Drain the old coolant: Place a drain pan under the radiator. Remove the radiator drain bolt (usually located at the bottom or on the water pump cover). Allow all coolant to drain out. Remove the reservoir tank cap if equipped (the 1995 CR500 primarily uses a radiator without a separate tank, but verify this for aftermarket mods) *.
- Inspect and replace the crush washer: Install a new crush washer on the drain bolt to prevent leaks, then reinstall and tighten the bolt securely.
- Flush if needed: If the old coolant is dirty, pour distilled water into the radiator, reinstall the cap, run the engine briefly, shut down, and drain again.
- Fill with new coolant: Slowly pour in ethylene glycol-based coolant until it reaches the base of the filler neck.
- Bleed air from the system: Gently rock the bike side to side to help dislodge air bubbles. Start the engine, let it idle with radiator cap off until the coolant begins to circulate and air bubbles escape. Top off as needed *.
- Reinstall the radiator cap: When bubbling ceases and coolant level stabilizes, completely fill to the neck and replace the cap.
- Check levels after first heat cycle: Let the bike reach full operating temperature, then allow it to cool completely. Double-check and top off coolant if necessary. Inspect for leaks at the drain plug and hose connections.
* As the 1995 CR500 typically lacks a pressurized overflow tank, careful filling and bleeding are crucial to prevent trapped air and overheating, an especially important issue for big-bore two-strokes.
CR500 Owner Tips & Reminders
- Never use non-glycol based or universal coolant: Stick with Honda-recommended formula or a compatible motorcycle coolant formulated for aluminum engines.
- Check regularly for leaks: The older design means hoses and radiators may suffer from age—inspect clamps, hoses, and seams for seeping.
- Service interval: Replace coolant every 2 years or sooner if you ride hard, in high heat, or after water crossings.
Summary
Routine coolant changes are simple preventive maintenance that will help keep your 1995 Honda CR500 running strong on any track or trail. Use only high-quality, ethylene glycol-based coolant and never skip the crush washer swap to avoid leaks. With the CR500's legendary power output, precise cooling system care is the secret to lasting performance.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Radiator Hoses for a 1995 Honda CR500 Dirt Bike.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.