Author Topic: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade  (Read 5567 times)

Rusty Shovel

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690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« on: April 05, 2014, 02:35:03 pm »
Hey all,

I've been noticing, as the heat becomes cruel here in Houston, that my 690 Enduro's fan doesn't kick on until 11 out of 12 bars on the thermostat are illuminated.  That seems a bit late for warning!

While riding the Desert Challenge with TenFootGlass, his 530 EXC seized completely because it overheated.  He was doing 70mph at the time (trying to catch up to me; I was doing 90 ;D).  His back tire locked up for about 80-100 feet; it's a miracle he didn't put the bike down.  His fan had failed to engage, and the damage was catastrophic.  Rings, pistons, rods...etc



Ouch!



Double Ouch!

I don't want that to happen to me!  I've done a bit of reading and learned that KTM designed the 690 to run hot so it's catalytic converter would "digest" exhaust gases (an EU requirement).  Since I've already ditched the stock exhaust can (and 'cause I couldn't give a rip about exhaust gasses on a vehicle that gets 60mpg), I've begun looking for a solution.

I found this:  http://www.ktmtwins.com/ktm-950-990-690-rc8-thermostat-switch



The stock switch is designed to activate the fan once the engine reaches a crazy temp of 221 F (!).  Even if you don't live in Houston, that's too hot for an engine to get on a daily basis.  Perhaps if you're racing, and you're worried about the parasitic draw of the fan...?  But for regular use, I think allowing the engine to run that hot can't be good.  The replacement switch initiates the fan at a more reasonable 190 F.  That's hot enough that I wouldn't be driving around with the fan on, but cool enough that the engine would be kept at a more reasonable temp.

According to folks who've done this, the fan kicks on at 8 bars instead of 11.  That would give me a bit more warning if I was having an issue with the cooling system, prior to a locked-up rear tire and a $2600 repair bill.

Has anyone else here done this?  Could you please share with us the install procedure and perhaps a few pics?  I've been told it's a simple 10-minute upgrade that's as easy as installing a skid plate.

Thanks!
« Last Edit: April 05, 2014, 03:06:06 pm by Rusty Shovel »
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truck11

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #1 on: April 09, 2014, 08:30:33 am »
Their 'fitment' guide does not list the '14 690 enduro r.    :(   should be the same though correct?    Has anyone reached out to the reseller to confirm fitment?

What about those who have NOT changed out their exhaust yet - can we still 'lower' the temp with no ill effects?
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Dane1960

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #2 on: April 11, 2014, 05:57:47 pm »
Rusty, I have notice my bike is running like 2 bars from the top of the scale and I'm use to gages running towards the middle of the scale.
Is this normal for this bike? My fan kicked on when I turned into the driveway and it's not even hot yet.

I'm thinking 98 degree summer and mud in the radiator and it's going to be trouble on a trail.

Rusty Shovel

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #3 on: April 11, 2014, 08:36:50 pm »
Yeah, mine heats all the way up to 11 bars nearly everyday.  I've never seen 12 bars, and I never intend to.

I ordered my thermostat upgrade a few days ago.  I've searched the web and haven't found any downside to the upgrade.  I'll let you know what I think.
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SDMF_Reaps

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #4 on: April 12, 2014, 09:00:36 am »
I also have one on order.  I can put some pics, part # and install tips up if you aren't going to Rusty. 

Rusty Shovel

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #5 on: April 12, 2014, 10:54:08 am »
I also have one on order.  I can put some pics, part # and install tips up if you aren't going to Rusty.

Be my guest!  I've scoured the internet and have yet to find a single photo or guide on the installation of this product.  So as far as I can tell, your post will be the WORLD PREMIERE!!

No pressure. :D
« Last Edit: April 16, 2014, 09:57:36 am by Rusty Shovel »
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Endo

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #6 on: April 15, 2014, 10:12:12 pm »
Good post Rusty!  :)

Rokitt

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #7 on: April 20, 2014, 06:14:53 pm »
I'm anxioulsy awating information on this.I sure hope it works !

truck11

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #8 on: July 30, 2014, 11:47:10 am »
Any update on install guidelines/tips from anyone? 
Can you still do this swap with stock exhaust etc, without any ill-effects?
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Rusty Shovel

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #9 on: July 30, 2014, 02:14:56 pm »
Any update ...

Sorry.  I got the upgraded thermostat a few months ago, but I've been away from home on an extended work assignment since.  If Reaps doesn't get to it before October, I'll post a full install write-up.
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SDMF_Reaps

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #10 on: July 30, 2014, 07:20:15 pm »
I'm in the same boat. I expect had it for a month or more. I just haven't got around to it.  But look for it this weekend. I'm finally going to be free for a change!!

SDMF_Reaps

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #11 on: August 01, 2014, 08:24:37 pm »
Well the install was way easier than I anticipated.  I'm not sure why I even imagined it would be difficult at all.

Link to the thread


Edit: Oh hey Rusty while I'm thinking of it, can we have a section dedicated to build threads?  It would be a place where people can keep a running list of mods and things they do to their bike.  Similar to this.  Here's mine.
« Last Edit: August 01, 2014, 08:35:30 pm by SDMF_Reaps »

truck11

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #12 on: August 04, 2014, 08:57:27 am »
Thanks for sharing.

I see the link you have that it is a Kawi part #.   This sensor seems to be a 'generic' type part then?      $42 seems a little cheaper that the $55 on KTM sites!!!

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SDMF_Reaps

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #13 on: August 04, 2014, 10:23:43 am »
Yeah I just went to my local dealer.  I think they charged me just over 30 bucks.

Rusty Shovel

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Re: 690 Enduro Thermostat Fan Switch Upgrade
« Reply #14 on: August 08, 2014, 04:19:37 pm »


Edit: Oh hey Rusty while I'm thinking of it, can we have a section dedicated to build threads?  It would be a place where people can keep a running list of mods and things they do to their bike.  Similar to this.  Here's mine.

That seems like a pretty cool idea.  My only concern with that layout is that it would be difficult for folks to find specific info.  I'm gonna add a new board on a *beta* basis and see if it's well received.
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