[MrCobraman]

Hi Guys

I have a Honda TRx350TM3 that I use for pottering across fields at night at low speed. Quad is 2003. I bought it January this year. No knowledge of previous service history.

I have noticed that the engine gets really hot, so much so that it is uncomfortable/cooking my lower legs. Fan does cut in occasionally in an attempt to cool down.

Quad is losing oil (about 0.5l in 4-6 hours use), however no smoke. Oil used is Honda HS 10W-40 Synthetic Based. No back firing. Air filter is clean. Plug looked in ok condition (ground electrode slightly grey, centre electrode even wear and thread blackened closest to electrode end). Oil & filter change 8-10 hours ago. Red warning light has never come on.

Other than the heat, the quad has been great.

I am not experienced with engine maintenance.

So my questions are:
1. Do Hondas generally run hot (especially at low speed) or could I have a problem?

2. If it is a problem, should I stop using the quad, or just keep monitoring the oil & cooking my legs?

3. Are there other things to try before going the piston ring route?

4. Any Honda lads in UK (Essex) that can help diagnose & fix (cheaper than dealer)? - Local quad garage says most likely to be worn piston rings, which is big bucks quoting circa £500 to sort out.

5. Anyone help with some good advice?

Many Thanks
James

 

[misterclean59]

Air cooled engines can run hot a low speeds. You are noticing it more now because it is summertime(you bought it in jan when it was cold). Yes a tight engine will cool better than a worn engine because it transfers heat to the cylinder fins more effectively but you will still feel much heat because it is radiating the same BTU's, just in a different manner. I'd say dont overhaul the engine because it's not burning much oil according to the plug reading. Perhaps others here can chime in.....perhaps adding a cooling fan to the engine and a duct away from your person?

 

[jesselittle]

Air cooled engines do tend to run hot, as said above. Just my two cents in, I would wire the oil cooling fan into the ignition so that it is cooling all the time instead of just when it gets extremely hot. Also, washing the engine and cleaning out the fins on the engine will allow it to get better air flow and cool better. Just some things I would try if it was me.


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[retro]

I agree with jesselittle, a manual over-ride fan switch is probably a good idea considering the way you use the bike. The motor oil will run cooler and last longer... and another side benefit (other than having cooler legs) will probably be less overall oil usage by your motor.