Can Am Outlander 800 Coolant Capacity - Your Complete Fluid & System

You’re miles from the trailhead, climbing a steep, rocky incline, and that dreaded temperature light starts to flicker. It’s a moment that can turn an epic off-road adventure into a long, frustrating wait for a tow. We’ve all been there, or at least, we all dread being there. The health of your Can-Am’s cooling system is the unsung hero of every ride, and it all starts with one simple, yet often overlooked, detail.

I promise this guide will demystify everything you need to know. We’re not just going to tell you a number; we’re going to give you the confidence to manage your machine’s lifeblood like a seasoned pro.

In this post, we’ll cover the exact can am outlander 800 coolant capacity, how to choose the right fluid, a step-by-step guide to checking and changing it, and how to troubleshoot common cooling system problems. Let’s keep that Rotax V-twin running cool and strong.

Why Your Outlander 800 Coolant Capacity Matters More Than You Think

That big, powerful Rotax 800 V-twin engine generates a massive amount of heat, especially when you’re working it hard in low-speed, high-load situations like mudding or rock crawling. Your cooling system is its only line of defense against a catastrophic meltdown.

Knowing the correct can am outlander 800 coolant capacity is about more than just filling a reservoir. It’s about ensuring the entire system has the precise volume of fluid needed to absorb, transport, and dissipate heat effectively.

Too Little Coolant: This is the obvious one. Not enough fluid means hot spots can form inside your engine, leading to warped heads, damaged gaskets, and engine seizure. It’s a fast track to a four-figure repair bill.
Too Much Coolant: Overfilling can pressurize the system beyond its limits as the fluid heats up and expands. This can lead to blown hoses, a damaged radiator, or a failed water pump seal—leaving you stranded on the trail.

Getting it right is fundamental to engine longevity and reliability. This is one of the most important can am outlander 800 coolant capacity tips we can offer: precision matters.

The Official Can-Am Outlander 800 Coolant Capacity (And What It Really Means)

Let’s get straight to the numbers you came for. While it’s always best to consult your specific year’s owner’s manual, the general specifications are consistent for most Outlander 800 models (including the 800R and 850 variants).

The Magic Numbers

The total cooling system capacity for a Can-Am Outlander 800 is approximately:

2.9 US Quarts (2.7 Liters)

However, this number can be misleading. This is the total volume of the entire system—the radiator, engine block, water pump, and all the hoses combined. You will almost never add this exact amount unless you are assembling a brand-new, bone-dry engine.

Dry Fill vs. Wet Fill: The Pro’s Distinction

Understanding the difference is a key part of this can am outlander 800 coolant capacity guide.

Total System Capacity (Dry Fill): This is the 2.9 qt / 2.7 L figure. It’s the amount needed for a completely empty system.
Drain and Refill (Wet Fill): When you perform a standard coolant change, you’ll likely only get about 2.0 – 2.5 quarts out. Some old fluid always remains trapped in the low points of the engine. This is normal!
Top-Off: When you’re just adding to the overflow reservoir, you might only add a few ounces.

The key takeaway is to use the capacity figure as a guideline, but always rely on the visual cues—the “MIN” and “MAX” lines on your overflow tank—for the final level.

Choosing the Right Coolant: Don’t Just Grab Any Jug!

Using the wrong type of coolant is one of the most damaging—and common—mistakes DIY mechanics make. Your Outlander’s engine has a lot of aluminum components, and it requires a specific type of antifreeze to prevent corrosion.

What to Use

OEM Recommended: BRP recommends its pre-mixed BRP Antifreeze/Coolant (Part # 219702685). It’s an ethylene glycol-based coolant specifically formulated to be silicate and phosphate-free. This is the safest, no-guesswork option.

Quality Aftermarket Alternatives: If you can’t get the BRP fluid, look for a high-quality coolant designed for powersports and aluminum engines. It must be a silicate-free and phosphate-free ethylene glycol-based formula. Brands like Engine Ice or specific Valvoline Zerex Asian Vehicle formulas are often compatible. Always read the label!

What to AVOID

NEVER use standard green or orange automotive coolant. These often contain silicates that can act like liquid sandpaper inside your cooling system, destroying your water pump’s delicate ceramic seal. Mixing coolant types can also cause the fluid to “gel,” clogging your radiator and causing severe overheating.

A Note on Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

For those interested in a more eco-friendly can am outlander 800 coolant capacity solution, some riders opt for propylene glycol-based coolants. These are significantly less toxic than ethylene glycol. However, they can have different heat transfer properties, so do thorough research and ensure the product is explicitly rated for your high-performance ATV.

The Complete Can Am Outlander 800 Coolant Capacity Flush & Fill Guide

Ready to get your hands dirty? Performing a coolant flush is a straightforward job that saves you money and ensures your machine is trail-ready. This is the core of our how to can am outlander 800 coolant capacity guide.

H3: Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

3 Quarts of BRP-recommended pre-mixed coolant
2-3 Gallons of distilled water (for flushing)
A drain pan (at least 1-gallon capacity)
Funnel
Basic socket set (you’ll likely need an 8mm or 10mm)
Pliers for hose clamps
Clean rags
Safety glasses and gloves

H3: Step 1: Draining the Old Coolant

Safety First! Make sure the engine is completely cool before you start. A hot cooling system is under pressure and can cause severe burns.

Park the ATV on a level surface.
Remove the front plastic rack and any service panels needed to access the radiator cap. On most models, this is under a panel near the handlebars.
Place your drain pan under the water pump. This is located on the right side of the engine (magneto side).
Slowly remove the radiator cap to release any residual pressure.
Locate the coolant drain bolt on the water pump housing. It’s usually a small bolt with a copper washer.
Unscrew the drain bolt and let the coolant drain completely into the pan.

H3: Step 2: Flushing the System

This step is crucial for removing old deposits and contaminants.

Reinstall the drain bolt (don’t overtighten!).
Using a funnel, slowly fill the radiator with distilled water. Do NOT use tap water, as its minerals can cause scaling and corrosion.
Reinstall the radiator cap. Start the engine and let it run for 2-3 minutes, just long enough to circulate the water.
Shut off the engine, let it cool for a few minutes, and then repeat the draining procedure.
Repeat this flush once or twice until the water draining out is clear.

H3: Step 3: Refilling and Bleeding the System (The Most Important Part!)

Rotax V-twin engines are notorious for trapping air pockets, which can cause phantom overheating. Bleeding the system is not optional—it’s one of the most critical can am outlander 800 coolant capacity best practices.

Reinstall the drain bolt with its copper washer one last time. Snug it up firmly.
Locate the air bleed screw. It’s a small screw on the top of the thermostat housing, where the upper radiator hose connects to the engine.
Slightly loosen the bleed screw (don’t remove it).
Slowly pour your new, pre-mixed coolant into the radiator. You’ll hear air hissing from the bleed screw.
Keep pouring until a steady stream of coolant, with no air bubbles, comes out of the bleed screw.
Tighten the bleed screw.
Continue filling the radiator until it’s full, then fill the overflow reservoir to the “MAX” line.
Leave the radiator cap OFF. Start the engine and let it idle. Squeeze the upper and lower radiator hoses gently to help burp out any remaining air pockets. You’ll see bubbles coming up in the radiator neck.
Let the engine run until the cooling fan cycles on and then off. This ensures the thermostat has opened and circulated the fluid completely.
Top off the radiator one last time, then securely install the radiator cap. Check the overflow tank level and add more if needed.

Common Problems with Can Am Outlander 800 Coolant Capacity and Systems

Even with the right fluid level, things can go wrong. Here are some common issues to watch for.

Persistent Overheating: If the level is correct but it still runs hot, you could have a trapped air bubble (re-bleed the system!), a dirty radiator clogged with mud, a faulty fan, or a stuck thermostat.
White Smoke/Sweet Smell: This is a classic sign of a head gasket failure, where coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber. This requires immediate professional attention.
Leaking Fluid: Check hose clamps first. If you see coolant dripping from a small hole on the bottom of the water pump, the internal seal has failed and the pump needs to be rebuilt or replaced.
Coolant Loss with No Visible Leak: A faulty radiator cap that isn’t holding pressure can allow coolant to boil off and escape as steam. They are cheap to replace and a good first step in troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Am Outlander 800 Coolant Capacity

What happens if I overfill the coolant?

When the engine heats up, the expanding coolant has nowhere to go. This excess pressure can damage hoses, seals, and even the radiator itself. The system is designed to have an air gap for expansion, which is why following the “MAX” line is so important.

Can I use regular car antifreeze in my Outlander 800?

No, you absolutely should not. Most automotive coolants contain silicates that will quickly destroy your ATV’s water pump seal, leading to a major and costly failure. Stick to silicate-free, phosphate-free powersports coolant.

How often should I change the coolant?

BRP recommends changing the coolant every 5 years, but for machines that see heavy use in mud or extreme heat, a 2-year interval is cheap insurance. This is a key part of any good can am outlander 800 coolant capacity care guide.

My Outlander is overheating, but the coolant is full. What’s next?

First, ensure your radiator fins are perfectly clean. Even a thin layer of dried mud can act as an insulator. If it’s clean, the next most likely culprits are a stuck thermostat (not opening), a faulty cooling fan (not turning on), or a failing water pump (not circulating fluid).

Mastering your Can-Am’s cooling system is a huge step toward becoming a more confident and self-sufficient rider. By understanding the correct can am outlander 800 coolant capacity, using the right fluid, and learning the proper flush and bleed procedure, you’re investing in the long-term health and reliability of your machine.

Now you have the expert knowledge to keep your engine cool under pressure. Get those tools out, give your ATV the care it deserves, and hit the trails with the peace of mind that comes from a job well done. Stay safe and ride on!

Author
Recent Posts

Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.