How to Change the Coolant in a 2009 Suzuki RM85
Shop parts for a 2009 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.Routine coolant changes are crucial for keeping your 2009 Suzuki RM85 running at peak performance – whether you race or ride trails. The RM85's two-stroke, liquid-cooled engine relies on fresh coolant to prevent overheating and maximize reliability. Here's a detailed MotoSport guide to changing the coolant on your RM85, plus a few specific notes for owners of this iconic youth motocross bike.
What You Need
- New coolant (make sure it's safe for aluminum engine components)
- Socket wrench set
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Distilled water (optional but recommended for flushing)
- Shop rags and gloves
Steps to Change the Coolant
- Let your engine cool completely. Never open the radiator cap or drain coolant on a hot engine to avoid burns and pressure-related accidents. Always wait until the bike is fully cool before beginning work.
- Remove the radiator cap. Unscrew the radiator cap at the top of the left radiator. This allows the old coolant to drain easily and prevents vacuum lock.
- Locate and remove the coolant drain bolt. On the RM85, the coolant drain bolt is at the bottom of the water pump cover. Place your drain pan directly underneath. Remove the bolt with a socket wrench and let the old coolant completely drain out.
- (Optional) Flush the system. For best results, pour distilled water into the radiator to flush out any leftover old coolant or debris. Let the water drain out completely. Avoid tap water, which can leave mineral deposits.
- Reinstall the drain bolt. Replace the copper crush washer if it's damaged or worn. Tighten the drain bolt to factory spec – do not overtighten.
- Add new coolant. Using a funnel, slowly pour the recommended coolant into the radiator until it reaches the bottom edge of the filler neck. Bleed any trapped air by leaning the bike side to side and gently squeezing the radiator hoses.
- Check for air pockets. Start the bike and let it idle for a few minutes with the radiator cap off, watching for air bubbles. As the coolant circulates and air escapes, top off as necessary. Once no more air bubbles appear and the coolant remains level, reinstall the radiator cap.
- Final check. After your first ride, let the bike cool and recheck both the radiator and overflow tank, topping off coolant if needed.
Important Notes for RM85 Owners
- Coolant capacity: The 2009 RM85 holds approximately 950 ml of coolant. Do not overfill.
- Bleeding air: Small-bore bikes like the RM85 can trap air in the cooling system after draining. Always run the bike and check for bubbles; air pockets cause overheating.
- Coolant choice: Only use pre-mixed, non-silicate, aluminum-safe coolant designed for dirt bikes – never plain water or automotive coolant with silicates.
- Disposal: Used coolant is toxic – never dump it on the ground. Collect the old coolant and take it to a proper recycling or hazardous waste facility.
Keeping your RM85's coolant fresh helps prevent common overheating issues and protects sensitive engine parts – especially important for youth bikes run hard at the track. Make coolant changes a regular part of your maintenance routine to ensure worry-free riding season after season.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Radiators for a 2009 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Coolant for a 2009 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Temperature Sensors for a 2009 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Tools for a 2009 Suzuki RM85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Radiator Hoses for a 2009 Suzuki RM85 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.