Owning an off-road vehicle is a blast, but proper care and maintenance are critical. It could mean the difference between riding the trails or hauling the rig to the shop.
Let’s cover the most important ATV maintenance tasks that affect performance.
Proper Fueling
Keeping water out of your ATV engine can be a daunting task, but it’s critically important.
The gasoline you use is critical to proper operation. Most fuel you buy at a gas station is about 10 percent ethanol. Ethanol can cause trouble when the ATV sits in storage.
We suggest only running premium fuel. If the rig has to be stored for any length of time, be sure to allow the engine to run until the fuel runs out of the carburetor and the engine dies. You may also want to consider the use of fuel stabilizer to avoid the hassle of draining the tank.
Also, be aware that fuel containers can be affected by condensation, adding water to your fuel. Always check that your fuel container is free of water before putting in fresh gas.
Oil Quality
The oil in your ATV engine is like the blood in your veins. If it gets dirty or sludge builds up, it could cause a blockage and ultimately destroy your motor. Keep an eye on the oil level and quality. Change it on a regular basis.
Most ATVs and side-by-side machines have filters for the oil, which should be changed with routine maintenance.
Use a reputable ATV oil filter - opens in new window or tab. and oil if the factory-recommended part is not available.
Clean Air
Regular oil changes are critical to the life of the engine.
Your machine’s engine needs clean air to perform at its best—so make sure your ATV's air filter - opens in new window or tab. is clean. Restricting airflow creates a rich mixture of fuel, which can foul your spark plug after prolonged rides.
Air filters are subject to allowing trace amounts of fine dust to enter the system. Some filters, specifically foam filters, require you to oil them after cleaning. This helps trap the finest particles, but you must remember to clean and oil the foam filters on a regular basis.
Dust is like sandpaper inside the engine and will accelerate the wear of rings and bearings.
Keep It Clean
Leaving your machine dirty or covered in mud after a ride could cause the chassis and other parts to rust. Bearings are sensitive to mud and moisture, so be diligent about cleaning up after every ride. A cleaning kit - opens in new window or tab. makes the job easier.
Using a pressure washer - opens in new window or tab. on items like suspension arms and wheel bearings can be hazardous because it forces water, mud, or moisture into these areas. Clean the entire ATV body and powertrain is basic but should not be overlooked in your maintenance regimen.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.