I am Disabled and have just bought a 1985 K100 Trike but it didn't come with the Owner's Handbook.  Can I top up the radiator by filling up the expansion bottle?  Or is there another easy way it can be done.

Thanks

Skippy

If the expansion bottle still has liquid in it, it's likely (but not certain) that the radiator is full, so top-up can be via the expansion bottle. 
If there is any uncertainty, the tank has to be lifted, often needing to undo fuel hoses on the left side of the tank to allow this. (Many put in slightly longer hoses so the tank can be lifted a bit without having to disconnect.) Radiator cap is on the right. 

Having just bought the trike, I'd suggest you check at the radiator cap under the tank to be sure. 

Obviously, if there is fairing in the way, that will be more involved and some help may be necessary. 

Bill

Hi Skippy

Welcome to the forum too.....

What's that skippy,  bobby is trapped down the well?

(Sorry, couldn't resist) - even though you're not one of the Australian brotherhood here.

Anyway, as others have said, access to the filler is on the right hand side of the tank.

The tank can be lifted up by popping up the back (it is a push-fit on most Ks - I am assuming your trike is the same). You then slide it back from the circular rubber bungs holding the front.  I always have enough slack in the fuel lines to move it left enough to access the filler without having to undo them.  Put a rag between the left side of the tank and any fairing etc. just to save the paintwork.

Welcome Skippy,

Looks like you aren't that far up the road from me (I regularly commute to/from Bristol), so if you need a hand with any of these simple jobs, then give me a shout. I have no experience of TriKes, but have had my fair share of whipping the fairing and tank off to do electrical and coolant jobs etc. Of course I am not suggesting that you aren't able to do these jobs your self, but sometimes it is useful to have a little help.

Skippy

You should be aware one of the best things about the forum and the Ks is an excuse to get together under the guise of maintenance get togethers etc. Copious amounts of tea and sKones can be consumed, or since you are south west I suppose it will be china tea cups, Darjeeling tea and scones with clotted cream. Get togethers are great fun and a great way of learning about a K. In many ways the know how is the secret.

We have enjoyed Born Again Eccentric's company over here and if you are feeling adventurous he is making his way over here on 1st August for a week with some Kamping in mind. You would be very welcome too, we know some nice places you wont have any trouble getting around [including our nice one at www.norevalleypark.com in Kilkenny] and they're not all called pubs either. There are a few others around for that week too so a chance to do some of your own thing too.

Thank you everyone for your advice.  With the help of my son, I have managed to get the Trike sorted.  I topped the rad up via the expansion tank as advised by various members here, and discovered there was no oil in the engine, so topped that up too.  The lighting system also needed sorting as the dip & main beam didn't work, neither did the hazards, so I managed to sort that as well.  And thanks for the offer of help, Born Again Eccentric, it's much appreciated.  If I get stuck, again I'll know who to call! I have a group on Facebook called Southwest Trikers & Bikers and try to meet up with fellow Trikers & Bikers when I can.  If anyone would like to join us, they will be most welcome.
   -o:

PS I'm a Happy Chappy now!