How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS

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This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS. The Grizzly 700 uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear and electronic power steering (EPS) that is separate from the braking system. Use DOT 4 brake fluid unless your owner's manual specifies otherwise. Keep brake fluid off painted surfaces & plastics; it will damage them.

What you'll need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened)
  • Brake-bleeder wrench or appropriately sized wrench
  • Clear plastic tubing & catch bottle
  • Vacuum or pressure bleeder (optional but speeds process)
  • Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
  • Jack or ramps and wheel chocks
  • Small brush and brake cleaner
  • Torque wrench (for wheel reinstallation)

Prep — safety first

  • Work on a level surface. Chock wheels and remove ignition key.
  • Warm the brakes with a short ride to thin old fluid, then park and let cool.
  • Raise the ATV and remove wheels to access calipers if necessary.
  • Clean around master cylinder reservoirs and bleeder screws to prevent contamination.
  • Inspect lines, hoses, master cylinders and calipers for leaks or damage; replace any soft or cracked hoses before bleeding.

Locate master cylinders & plan sequence

The Grizzly 700 typically has separate reservoirs for front and rear braking circuits. Identify each reservoir and their corresponding calipers. The general rule: bleed the caliper furthest from its master cylinder first, then work toward the closest.

Step-by-step bleeding (manual method)

  1. Open the master reservoir cap and top to the MAX line with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Keep the cap loosely installed to avoid debris entry.
  2. Start with the caliper furthest from that master cylinder. Fit clear tubing over the bleeder screw and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid drawing air back in.
  3. Have a helper slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it down. With the lever held, open the bleeder screw about one-quarter turn until fluid & bubbles flow into the tubing, then close the screw. Release the lever. Repeat until no air bubbles appear and fluid runs clear.
  4. Keep the master reservoir level topped up throughout to prevent air entry. Never let it drop to the bottom.
  5. Move to the next-caliper in the sequence (next furthest), repeating the pump-open-close routine until all circuits for that master cylinder are bubble-free.
  6. Repeat the entire process for the other master cylinder/reservoir if equipped.

Optional quicker method — vacuum or pressure bleeder

  • Attach a vacuum pump to each bleeder in turn and draw fluid through until clear and bubble-free.
  • Or use a pressure bleeder on the master reservoir to push fluid through each caliper from furthest to nearest. These methods minimize helper requirements and reduce contamination risk.

Finishing steps

  • When bleeding is complete, ensure bleeder screws are tightened to spec (do not overtighten) and wipe any spilled fluid immediately.
  • Top the reservoir to the proper level and securely install caps with new or clean reservoir gaskets if available.
  • Reinstall wheels, torque lug nuts to spec, lower the ATV, and perform a firm brake test at low speed in a safe area. Brakes should feel firm & responsive with no sponginess.
  • Dispose of used brake fluid per local hazardous-waste regulations.

Model-specific notes for the 2009 Grizzly 700 4X4 EPS

  • The EPS system is electrically assisted and separate from brake hydraulics — draining brake fluid will not affect EPS, but ensure electrical connectors near master cylinders remain dry.
  • Some Grizzly 700s have dual front calipers. Verify which calipers are tied to each reservoir before bleeding to follow the correct sequence.
  • Brake fluid should be replaced every two years or sooner if contaminated. Heavy use or trail riding in wet/muddy conditions may shorten that interval.
  • Replace rubber master cylinder reservoir caps or diaphragms if cracked; they keep moisture out and extend fluid life.
  • If the brake lever/pedal remains spongy after careful bleeding, inspect calipers and hoses for internal collapse, and consider a caliper rebuild or hose replacement.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent bubbles: check for cracked hoses, loose fittings, or a leaking master cylinder. Tighten fittings and replace damaged parts.
  • No pressure after bleeding: check for seized caliper pistons or a failed master cylinder.
  • Brake dragging after bleeding: confirm calipers fully retract and bleeder screws are fully closed.

Follow these steps for a reliable brake fluid service that restores pedal/lever feel and maintains safety on your Grizzly 700. If you encounter internal component failure or electronic EPS faults, bring your ATV to a qualified technician.

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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.