Kawasaki Teryx is one of the best overall side-by-sides you can find. They are fun to ride, durable, and perform at a high level, but one common complaint is the radiator not working properly. So what are some common radiator problems and solutions with the Kawasaki Teryx?
Some common radiator problems include overheating from buildup and debris, broken parts, or issues with the coolant. Solutions include cleaning the radiator by removing debris and buildup, ensuring the fans are working correctly, filling the coolant levels, and maintaining overall cleanliness.
This article will examine the most common radiator problems with the Kawasaki Teryx. I will also show you some ways you can fix them, which are often very simple. Let’s take a look!
1. Mud Gets Stuck in the Radiator
The offroading aspect is one of the best parts about using a UTV like a Kawasaki Teryx. You get to find trails off the beaten path and experience nature firsthand. But along with this adventure comes debris that might get caught in certain parts of the vehicle. Some of these include:
- Mud
- Sand
- Dirt
One of the reasons you may experience radiator problems with your Kawasaki Teryx is that it gets all these kinds of debris inside. If dirt dries on, it can harden and cause problems to the radiator and other parts of the machine.
The mess is easy to notice and address if you go through a giant mud puddle or are offroading for a long time. However, dust from traveling down dry dirt roads can accumulate, and if it gets any moisture, the dirt can cake on. This may lead to a blockage of airflow and overheating.
Luckily, it’s a pretty easy fix if this is why your Kawasaki Teryx is overheating! All you have to do is grab a hose, wash off the front of your machine, and ensure that you get the water into the radiator area.
Here’s a video showing how to get the mud out of the radiator on a Kawasaki Teryx by Wabash Outdoors:
As you can see, the most common reason why your Kawasaki Teryx is overheating actually has a relatively simple solution! So, next time you get your machine dirty, clean it immediately to avoid overheating down the road.
2. The Heat Gets Blown Into the Cabin
Another of the most common concerns amongst Kawasaki Teryx owners is overheating in the cabin. Many riders experience the heat being blown off the engine and directly to where the drivers and passengers sit. The extra heat can be incredibly uncomfortable, depending on the riding conditions outside.
So what do you do when the heat blows directly into your cabin? Luckily, you can take some relatively easy steps to fix this problem. You can fix the issue by using insulation for the tubes or other heat shield products (source).
3. The Fan Is Broken or Malfunctioning
Another reason you may be having trouble with your radiator is that the fan isn’t working properly. If your fan is not being powered or has broken, it may cause other issues with your radiator, most commonly overheating.
Sometimes, the fan may not be broken, but there could be a short circuit causing it not to work correctly. Blown fuses are one of the most commonly cited reasons for the fan not working in a UTV (source).
If you have damaged your radiator cooling fan to the point that it won’t work anymore, it may be time to buy a new one. I love the KRF750 Radiator Cooling Fan Motor (link to Amazon) because it’s designed to work with the Kawasaki Teryx, has a 1-year warranty, and is powered by 12 Volts of energy.
4. The Coolant Is Low or Empty
If you’re driving your Kawasaki Teryx and ignore the coolant level, you may experience problems with your vehicle. Coolant is essential for maintaining a healthy performance for your radiator and engine and giving your vehicle the proper temperature for the internal components that make it run smoothly.
If you notice any problems with your radiator or engine overheating, you should check that your coolant is appropriately stored and at the recommended level. Some of the issues that can happen with your coolant include:
- The coolant level is too low.
- Bubbles are forming in the coolant system.
- You haven’t changed the coolant, and it is dirty or old.
- There is a leak in the tank where the coolant is stored.
If you suspect an issue with the radiator, you should check the health of your coolant and the tank and tubes that feed it to the radiator. Be sure to follow the steps in the user manual, and you will have a healthier radiator and engine for your Kawasaki Teryx (source).
5. The Screen Is Damaged in Front of the Radiator
The radiator screen in the front of the machine is ideal for protecting it from debris and obstructions that can damage the radiator and cause it to work less effectively. If you notice you’re having issues with your radiator, check that your screen is intact and not damaged or blocked by mud and other obstructions.
If your screen has been broken, you may get large chunks of mud or sticks that find their way into the radiator. Be sure to replace your radiator screen if you suspect this is the case.
If you have a Kawasaki Teyx, you can check the oil yourself. To do it, follow my easy guide.
Final Thoughts
If you notice you’re having problems with your radiator, it might be as simple as heavy use leading to mud and other buildups you can simply spray away. Other issues could be related to the radiator, like the fan or the coolant.
We hope this article helps you understand all the things that may be causing problems with your radiator. The solutions offered in this article should give you a good idea of what you can do when any of these problems arise. Now that you know what problems to look for, you can get out and ride safely!
