Check your Thermostat!

[farmerj]

Hi All,

Take a look at this thermostat (2018 XC 300).

IMG_4405.jpg

I had problems with my radiator hose coming off (it happened a second time today). A closer look reveals that the thermostat housing nipple is warped - it is oval-shaped. It also seems slightly compressed toward the end.

As Nate has said, there isn't much of a lip on it either - and even a lined worm-drive clamp wouldn't hold. When I put proper tension on it, the hose could still be pulled off by hand; and if I continued tightening, the clamp (and hose) would work its way right off the thermostat!

It appears to me that over time (95 hrs.) the thermostat material degrades and softens; not a good thing to find out when you're out on a ride!

I know I have another thread going related to this - but wanted to highlight this potential problem. If you have a thermostat on your bike, I'd recommend taking a look - it might save you a hike!

Jeff

[farmerj]

Upon reflection, it is possible that the oval shape is due to me over-tightening the clamp. Even so, the rest of my comments may have merit.

Reach under your tank and tug on the radiator hose by hand. If it comes off, better to find that out in your shop than in the wild

Jeff