How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker
Shop parts for a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive procedure walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker (MMY: YAMAHA;BEARTRACKE;2000). Follow every step carefully, use the correct fluid, and observe basic safety. If you’re not comfortable with brake work, consult a qualified technician.
Model notes & precautions
- The 2000 Bear Tracker uses a simple ATV hydraulic brake system with a master cylinder reservoir feeding caliper(s). Confirm the reservoir cap and fluid type on your unit before beginning; Yamaha typically specifies DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid – use the exact spec shown in your owner–s manual. Never mix DOT5 (silicone) with DOT3/DOT4.
- Brake fluid is highly hygroscopic and corrosive to paint & plastic. Protect painted surfaces and wear nitrile gloves and eye protection. Dispose of old fluid according to local hazardous-waste regulations.
- Work on a clean, level surface with the engine off and key removed. Use wheel chocks and a lift or stands to safely access wheels if needed.
Tools & supplies
- New DOT-specified brake fluid (check owner manual)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits bleed nipple
- Small catch bottle or jar with a one-way cover or clamp
- Wrenches for bleed nipple (usually 8mm or 10mm) and master cylinder cap
- Syringe or turkey baster (for reservoir fluid removal)
- Shop rags, brake-clean, gloves, safety glasses
- Assistant to pump brake lever/pedal (recommended) or vacuum pump bleeder
Preparation
- Park the ATV on level ground, secure it, and remove any wheels or plastics that obstruct bleed nipples or the reservoir cap.
- Clean the master cylinder cap area thoroughly to prevent contamination. Remove cap and diaphragm carefully.
- Use a syringe or turkey baster to remove most old fluid from the reservoir, leaving a small amount to prevent introducing air into the system.
- Top up with new DOT-specified fluid to the correct level. Keep the reservoir cap loosely in place to slow contamination while you work.
Bleeding sequence & technique
Standard best practice is to start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest caliper. If the Bear Tracker has a single circuit, simply bleed each outlet in sequence; if it has separate front/rear circuits, treat each circuit independently.
- Attach clear tubing over the bleed nipple on the first (farthest) caliper. Put the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever or pedal several times and hold it down. While held, open the bleed nipple about a quarter turn to allow fluid/air to exit. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever to prevent sucking air back in.
- Repeat pump/hold/open/close cycles until you see only clean fluid (no bubbles) in the tubing. Continuously monitor and top up the master reservoir to prevent it running dry – running dry will introduce air and force you to restart.
- Move to the next caliper and repeat. Finish with the caliper closest to the master cylinder.
- After all points are bled, perform a final flush: fill the reservoir with fresh fluid and repeat a short bleed at each caliper to ensure completely new fluid fills the lines.
- When finished, tighten bleed nipples to specified snugness (hand-tight plus a small additional turn – avoid over-tightening). Clean any spilled fluid and reinstall the master cylinder diaphragm and cap. Properly torque any removed components per service manual if you have torque specs.
Alternative methods
- Vacuum bleeder: Attach vacuum pump to bleed nipple and draw while topping off reservoir. This is a one-person option and speeds the process. Avoid excessive suction that could draw air around the nipple threads.
- Pressure bleeder: Pressurizes the reservoir to push fluid through – fast and clean but requires a compatible tool. Follow the pressure bleeder manufacturer instructions and never exceed recommended pressure.
Final checks & break-in
- Confirm pedal/lever feel – it should be firm and consistent with no sponginess. If spongy, repeat bleeding until air is eliminated.
- Check for leaks at all fittings, bleed nipples, hoses, and calipers. Re-torque fittings if necessary.
- Clean all fluid-contaminated areas with brake cleaner and a rag. Remove rags & spilled fluid from near hot components or moving parts.
- Test-ride slowly in a safe area, applying brakes with progressive force to bed-in the system and verify consistent stopping power. Avoid hard braking until confident in the repair.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent air: Ensure the reservoir never runs dry during bleeding; repeat the full sequence and consider replacing old rubber hoses if they collapse or draw air.
- Soft lever despite no visible bubbles: Inspect master cylinder and calipers for internal seal wear. Rebuild kits for the master cylinder or caliper pistons may be required.
- Contaminated fluid (dark, gritty): Perform a complete fluid flush; replace the reservoir diaphragm if degraded and replace inline hoses if contamination is severe.
Parts & service notes specific to the 2000 Bear Tracker
- Original Yamaha brake components on this model are robust but may show age-related wear — common items to inspect are the master cylinder diaphragm, bleed nipple seals, caliper piston seals, and rubber brake hoses. Replace any brittle or cracked rubber parts.
- Because this is an older MMY, hard-to-find OEM pieces may be available through MotoSport parts listings and aftermarket suppliers. When replacing pistons or seals, use OEM-equivalent materials rated for brake fluid exposure.
- Some owners find the reservoir cap diaphragm becomes fragile over time and allows contamination; replace it whenever you do a major fluid service to maintain a proper seal.
Safety & disposal
- Store brake fluid in its original, sealed container until use. Keep away from moisture and sunlight.
- Dispose of used brake fluid at a hazardous-waste collection site or authorized recycling center – do not pour it down drains or onto the ground.
Performing a full brake-fluid replacement and bleed on your 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker restores safe, predictable braking performance and extends the life of hydraulic components. If you need any replacement parts or fluid rated for your MMY, use the MotoSport parts catalog linked above to find the right items.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2000 Yamaha Bear Tracker ATV.
Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.