# Cleaning Radiator

The radiator fins clog over time with bugs, dust, and track debris. Since the radiator is **rear-mounted**, it sees significant debris thrown up by the rear tires. Clean it at the start of each season or whenever you notice elevated coolant temperatures.

## Accessing the Radiator

Remove the rear bodywork (rear clamshell) to expose the radiator. The rear clam is held by 2 Aerocatches — no tools required.

## Procedure

Airflow through the radiator travels front-to-back: air enters from the sidepod inlets at the front face of the radiator core and exits toward the engine. Debris builds up on the front face (air inlet side).

1. With the rear clamshell removed, inspect the radiator core for debris and fin damage.
2. Using compressed air, blow through the radiator from the **front (inlet) side toward the engine** — this pushes debris in the direction it entered, clearing it out through the engine side.
3. For stubborn buildup, use a gentle stream of water from a garden hose (not a pressure washer), directed the same way — front face toward engine.
4. Inspect the fins for bending. Carefully straighten any bent fins with a small flathead screwdriver or fin comb — bent fins restrict airflow and reduce cooling capacity.
5. Allow to dry completely before reinstalling bodywork.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Do not use a pressure washer — the force will bend the aluminum fins and permanently reduce cooling efficiency.
{% endhint %}

## Coolant Check

While the rear is open, it is a good time to inspect coolant condition. The Rush SR uses **distilled water + Red Line Water Wetter only**. Do not use antifreeze — glycol is a track safety hazard and not permitted. See [Changing Coolant](/maintenance/each-year/changing-coolant.md) and [Fluids](/maintenance/fluids.md).


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