How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2008 Can-Am DS70

Shop parts for a 2008 Can-Am DS70 ATV.

This MotoSport guide covers safe, repeatable steps to replace brake fluid and properly bleed the hydraulic brake system on a 2008 Can-Am DS70. Before you begin, verify whether your DS70 has hydraulic brakes on the wheels you intend to service. Some small youth quads use cable or drum brakes on one axle; this procedure is for hydraulic systems only.

Tools & supplies

  • Appropriate brake fluid recommended for your model (check the owner’s manual; commonly DOT 3 or DOT 4). Use only the specified type.
  • Clear tubing that fits the bleed nipple snugly
  • Catch bottle or jar (marked for brake fluid)
  • Line clamp or small hose clamp
  • Box or open-end wrench that fits the bleed nipple (typically 8mm or 10mm on small ATVs)
  • Syringe or turkey baster to remove fluid from the reservoir
  • Disposable gloves, safety glasses, rags, and brake cleaner
  • Jack or stand to lift the bike safely if needed
  • Torque wrench for caliper/clevis bolts if you plan to remove components

Safety and model notes

  • Brake fluid damages paint and plastics. Protect panels and catch spills immediately with rags and brake cleaner.
  • The DS70 uses compact brake components and plastic reservoirs. Use light force on fittings to avoid rounding or cracking. If a bleed nipple feels stuck, apply penetrating fluid and work carefullydo not overtighten or hammer.
  • Confirm reservoir location and capacity before draining. On many mini-ATVs the master cylinder reservoir is mounted at the handlebar or atop the caliper area.
  • Always replace brake fluid with the same DOT rating as in the system. Mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 alters boiling points and can harm system performance.

Preparation

  1. Park on a level surface, kill the engine, and remove the key. Secure the ATV with the parking brake off when working on the brake circuit you’re bleeding.
  2. Clean the reservoir cap area thoroughly to avoid contamination. Remove the cap and diaphragm to expose the fluid. Use a syringe to extract most old fluid from the reservoir until level is low but sediment-free.
  3. Top the reservoir with fresh brake fluid to the fill mark. Keep the cap nearby but do not reseal yet.
  4. Identify bleed nipples on the caliper(s). Place a clear hose over the nipple and submerge the far end in a small transparent bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air re-entry.

Bleeding sequence

For multi-wheel hydraulic systems follow the standard sequence: start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and finish with the nearest. If the DS70 has a single front lever for both front & rear, bleed both circuits one at a time.

  1. Have an assistant sit on the ATV (or apply steady pressure to the brake lever if you do one-person method) and slowly pump the brake to build pressure, then hold the lever/cable firmly.
  2. Open the caliper bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn with the wrench. Fluid and air will flow into the catch bottle. Ask your assistant to maintain pressure on the lever while you monitor flow.
  3. When flow slows and appears air-free, close the nipple while the lever is still held. Only close the nipple when pressure is applied to avoid sucking air back in.
  4. Release the lever, wait, then top off the master cylinder reservoir to the recommended level. Repeat the pump-and-open cycle until no bubbles appear in the tubing and the lever feel is firm.
  5. Work through each wheel in the recommended order, keeping the reservoir topped off at all times so air cannot enter the master cylinder.

One-person vacuum or pressure method (alternate)

  • Use a hand-held vacuum bleeder on the bleed nipple: attach the clear hose to the vacuum tool and open the nipple. Pull fluid through until you see no air and fresh fluid runs clear. Keep the reservoir topped off.
  • Or use a pressure bleeder on the master cylinder: pressurize per tool directions and open each bleed nipple in turn until air-free.

Finishing steps

  1. Once bleeding is complete and the lever feels firm with no sponginess, tighten all bleed nipples securely. Wipe down fittings and caliper area with brake cleaner.
  2. Top the reservoir to the correct level, replace the diaphragm and cap, and ensure cap threads are clean before closing. Avoid overtightening capjust snug.
  3. Check for leaks with the ATV stationary: apply the brake hard and hold for 30 seconds. Inspect lines, fittings, and calipers for seepage.
  4. Lower the ATV, perform a low-speed test ride in a safe area to confirm proper operation and feel. Recheck fluid level after the first short ride and top if needed.

Disposal and maintenance tips

  • Dispose of old brake fluid according to local regulations; do not pour down drains.
  • Change brake fluid at the intervals recommended in the service manual or sooner if the fluid is dark or contaminated. Fresh fluid improves performance and corrosion protection.
  • Inspect brake lines, banjo bolts, and caliper hardware for wear or corrosion during service. Replace any rubber hoses showing cracking or swelling.
  • Keep a small spare master cylinder diaphragm and correctly sized bleed nipple washers in your parts kit for quick repairs on the trail.

DS70 owner notes specific to the 2008 Can-Am model

  • The DS70 is a youth machine with compact hydraulic components. Fasteners are smaller and more delicate than full-size ATVs – use the correct wrench size and moderate torque.
  • Plastic reservoirs and thin brake lines are common on this model; avoid overfilling and spilling fluid on plastic trims or paint.
  • If the brake lever remains soft after thorough bleeding, suspect a worn master cylinder seal, contaminated caliper pistons, or collapsed hose. Those components are repairable but may require parts unique to the DS70.
  • Keep replacement parts handy that fit the 2008 Can-Am DS70 brake assembly. MotoSport stocks many compatible lines, seals, and small hardware items for these machines.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2008 Can-Am DS70 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2008 Can-Am DS70 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2008 Can-Am DS70 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2008 Can-Am DS70 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2008 Can-Am DS70 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.