How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4
Shop parts for a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.
This MotoSport-exclusive step-by-step guide covers tools, parts, safety notes, and a proven procedure to fully replace and bleed the hydraulic brake system on a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4. Follow these instructions carefully to maintain braking performance and longevity.
Parts & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (Yamaha recommends DOT 4 for Grizzly 700; confirm on your reservoir cap)
- Brake bleed kit or clear hose and catch bottle
- 10 mm wrench (bleeder screws) and appropriate open-end or box wrenches for caliper bleeders
- Phillips screwdriver or pry tool for reservoir cap clips
- Clean shop rags, gloves, and eye protection
- Brake cleaner and a disposable container for old fluid
- Torque wrench for reassembly where applicable
Model-specific notes for the 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4
- The 2009 Grizzly 700 uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear with a single master cylinder for front and a separate rear master cylinder depending on trim. Confirm whether your machine has combined front/rear routing; owners with 4X4 EPS or special packages may have minor routing differences.
- Reservoirs sit on the handlebars (front) and frame near the rear brake pedal (rear) on many units — keep both reservoirs topped as you service each circuit.
- ABS is not present on the 2009 Grizzly 700; bleeding is performed conventionally and sequentially per circuit.
- Rubber and painted surfaces are sensitive to brake fluid — protect plastic and painted metal when removing caps and catching fluid.
- Before working, verify parking brake and brake pedal engagement, and secure the ATV on a flat surface with the engine off and key removed.
Safety first
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves/eye protection.
- Brake fluid damages paint and plastics; immediately wash spills with water and brake cleaner if safe for the surface.
- Never reuse brake fluid; dispose of old fluid according to local regulations.
Preparation
- Park ATV on level ground, block wheels, and put the machine in park or neutral with the parking brake engaged.
- Clean reservoir caps to prevent contamination. Remove reservoir caps and diaphragm covers; set aside the screws or clips in a clean place.
- Check the reservoir fluid level and top to the MAX line with fresh DOT 4 fluid.
- Identify bleed screws on each caliper. The Grizzly 700 typically has two front calipers and one rear caliper; confirm layout on your machine.
Bleeding sequence
Bleed wheels from the furthest from the master cylinder to the nearest. Typical sequence on Grizzly 700:
- Rear caliper (if rear master cylinder present and isolated)
- Right front caliper
- Left front caliper
Step-by-step bleed and fluid replacement
- Attach a clear hose to the caliper bleeder and place 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, then hold pressure. If alone, use a one-man vacuum or pressure bleed tool.
- Open the bleeder screw about a quarter-turn while pressure is held. Fluid and air will flow into the hose and bottle. Close bleeder before the lever or pedal is released to avoid sucking air back in.
- Repeat the pump/open/release cycle until you see clear, bubble-free fluid exiting the bleeder. Maintain reservoir level throughout to prevent introducing air into the system.
- When bleed is complete for that caliper, tighten the bleeder to specified snugness (do not over-torque) and wipe away fluid from surrounding surfaces.
- Move to the next caliper in sequence and repeat steps 1-5.
- After all calipers are bled, confirm final reservoir level is at the MAX line, reinstall diaphragm and cap, and secure any clips or screws.
- Test brake lever/pedal feel with engine off, then start the engine and re-check feel at idle. Brakes should be firm and consistent. If spongy, repeat bleeding until solid.
- Inspect for leaks at hoses, banjo bolts, bleeder screws, and caliper fittings. Torque banjo bolts to Yamaha spec if removed (use service manual values).
One-person bleeding options
- Use a hand vacuum bleed pump on each caliper bleeder port. Pump until clear fluid appears and no air bubbles remain.
- Alternatively, a pressure bleeder on the reservoir forces fluid through the system; follow tool instructions and maintain proper pressure to avoid damage.
Final checks & maintenance tips
- Ride slowly in a safe area to confirm braking performance before full-speed operation.
- Check fluid level again after a short ride; air pockets can surface and require a touch-up bleed.
- Replace brake hoses or seals showing cracks, swelling, or leakage; rubber lines age and can compromise braking.
- Keep a record of fluid change date and mileage; brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be replaced every 1-2 years depending on use and storage conditions.
- Store DOT 4 fluid in its factory-sealed container; once opened, minimize exposure to air and moisture.
Troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy lever after bleeding: check master cylinder and caliper piston movement for corrosion or sticking; consider a caliper rebuild kit.
- Air returns after tightening bleeders: inspect bleeder screw threads and bleeder hose seating; replace damaged bleeders or use fresh copper crush washers where applicable.
- Brake drag after bleeding: ensure caliper pistons fully retract and slider pins move freely; clean and lubricate slider pins with appropriate high-temperature grease.
Perform brake service with patience and attention to contamination control. Properly bled and fresh DOT 4 fluid will restore braking confidence on your 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 and keep it ready for trail or work.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 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.
