Motorcycle Repair: Kawasaki Vulcan 1500, kawasaki vulcan classic, kawasaki vulcan 1500

Question
Hi Mark, thanks for your time,
I have a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan classic 1500, Went for a short ride today, and about 25 miles way my house,  I heard a noise on the left side bottom of engine, I stop in to the next gas station and shut the bike of it was hot.
After cool of a little I check what I could and found OIL in the radiator, NOT in the engine, BUT in the radiator.
What is that, is that BAD?
What is the solution for it?

Any way thanks again for your time
Bless you

Cesar

Answer
Hi Cesar,

Yes, that's bad. The water pump/mechanical seal is likely defective and not sealing oil from coolant. It may be another seal that is bad. A tech will have to investigate to determine which is the cause of the problem.

The solution is replacing the defective seal and parts, if related parts are affected.

"..... After cool of a little I check what I could and found OIL in the radiator, NOT in the engine, BUT in the radiator....."

I think I know what you mean, but to verify, be certain that oil is present in the engine and at the proper level. Check for coolant in the oil. When water mixes with engine oil, water appears as a light milky colored substance.

Do not put anything into the engine or cooling system in attempt to stop the leak. Cleaning these additives out may cost you additional $$$$.

Keep me advised.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively