With Spring in full swing, it’s time to ride your ATV! Before you take it out for the first time, you may want to have some things checked on it first. After all, the goal is to be the guy that’s riding on the trails, instead of the guy under his ATV on the side of the trail.

Here are some tips from the experts here at Brooks PowerSports for a good Spring ATV service!

Change Oil/ Filter

Ensuring that your engine is properly lubricated before heavy use is very important! This is especially true if the ATV sat more over the winter months, then it did run. Any condensation built up in the oil from the previous riding season could end up harming the motor. A fresh filter & oil should take care of that. You’ll just want to make sure that you get the proper oil viscosity for the ATV that you are servicing.

Clean the Air Filter/ Air Box and Check for Mice

A big problem that we have seen in the past with ATV’s that have not been ridden in months, is the infestation of mice. The air box, and air filter seems to be a popular place for them to nest. If there are signs of mice, then you’re going to want to look over more than just the air box, as there may be some chewed wires, etc. If there’s no mice then a clean air filter and air box will ensure breathability and clean air for the ATV’s internal systems (drive, engine, etc.).

Inspect Tie Rod Ends and Ball Joints for Play, then Check Boot Condition

Take a look at the drive system of the ATV. Inspect all aspects of the parts that propel the ATV and help protect its parts. If you see any damaged or missing parts, then you’re going to want to make sure that you get them repaired or replaced for the upcoming riding season. Like I said earlier, you don’t want to be the person on the side of the trail.

Lubricate the Chassis, and any Greaseable Inserts.

Properly lubricating your machines bushings and chassis, will prevent squeaks, and provide longer life on those parts. On the Can Am’s you can grease the rear propeller shaft joints, front suspension arm bushings, the rear stabilizer bar bushings, and on some machines, more. Take a look at your ATV to see what it comes with.

Check All Fluids

In addition to the oil, you’re going to want to add, or change some other fluids on your ATV. The time at which you replace the fluids depend on the manufacturer recommendations. In addition to the oil, you’re going to want to check the differential & gearbox fluids, as well as, the brake & anti-freeze levels. For obvious reasons, each of these can play an important roll in making your ATV last as long as possible.

Check Battery Connections/ Spark Plugs

The last thing you want when you unload the ATV on your vacation, is to have an ATV that won’t start. If it’s having a tough time starting the first time, then you may want to check the battery to make sure it’s taking, and holding, a charge. If not, it may be time to replace the battery. Also, check the spark plugs. Having them cleaned, or replacing them, will give you the peace of mind knowing they’re going to provide the proper spark each time you turn the key.

Check Fuel

Your fuel situation will most likely depend on what you did with it before winter. If you put stabilizer in the fuel before the winter, then you should be fine to run what you have before adding more. If you didn’t add stabilizer, but you did leave it sit, then replacing the fuel or adding K-100 might be a good choice. A lot of times when fuel is left over winter, condensation may build up. K-100 would help get the water out of the fuel and keep your carburetor clean. A clean carburetor makes for a happy ATV.

Inspect Brakes, and Torque Wheels

Last but not least, is the final inspection of the vehicle. Torqueing the wheels and inspecting the brakes will ensure proper stopping power, and snug wheels.
These steps might be the difference between a miserable riding season, and a fun riding season. Here at Brooks PowerSports we offer a maintenance package that includes the oil/ filter change, air filter clean, chassis lube, light check, brake check, fluid check/ top off (differentials, gearbox, antifreeze, brake fluid), a computer reset (if Can-Am), and a general look over of the ATV.

If you have any questions, or might be interested, then please don’t hesitate to give us a call. 717-469-4640, or shoot us an email at info@brookspowersports.com.