How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2010 Yamaha Grizzly 550 4X4 POWER STEERING
Shop parts for a 2010 YAMAHA GRIZZLY55E ATV.
Overview & Safety
This stepbystep MotoSport guide shows you how to drain, replace, and properly bleed the brake fluid on a 2010 Yamaha Grizzly 550 4X4 Power Steering (EPS). Use only DOT 4 brake fluid unless the vehicle owner’s manual specifies otherwise. Work on a cool machine, wear eye protection and gloves, avoid spilling fluid on painted surfaces, and dispose of old fluid responsibly.
Tools & Supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
- Clear plastic tubing and catch bottle
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe
- Brake bleeder wrench or wrench for bleed nipples
- Vacuum bleeder (optional) or a second person for manual bleeding
- Clean rags, shop towels
- Torque wrench (for caliper/hose fittings)
- Jack and stands or ramps to stabilize ATV
- Brake parts cleaner (optional) and a small funnel or reservoir cup
Model Notes for the 2010 Yamaha Grizzly 550 EPS
- The Grizzly 550 EPS uses a handlebar master cylinder for the front brakes and a footoperated rear master cylinder. Bleeding must account for both systems.
- Power steering (EPS) has its own hydraulic circuit; do not confuse EPS fluid with brake fluid. Keep brake fluid away from EPS components and seals.
- Brake lines on this model run near the swingarm and suspension links. Inspect lines, hoses, and fittings for chafing or leaks while you’re working.
- Recommended brake fluid change interval: replace every 1-2 years or if fluid is dark or contaminated.
- ABS is not fitted to the standard 2010 Grizzly 550 EPS; bleeding routine is the conventional master cylindercaliper method.
Preparation
- Park the ATV on level ground, engage park/gear, and secure the machine. Use the parking brake if available and chock wheels.
- Raise wheels as needed so calipers are accessible. Support the ATV securely.
- Clean the brake fluid reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent contamination.
- Locate bleed nipples on each caliper and identify which master cylinder feeds which caliper(s): front master (handlebar) feeds the front calipers; rear master (foot) feeds the rear caliper(s).
Drain Old Fluid from Reservoirs
- Remove the reservoir caps and diaphragms. Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid from each reservoir as possible. Dispose properly.
- Refill the reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 to the correct level. Do not dilute or mix with used fluid.
Bleeding Sequence & Method
Bleed the system from the caliper farthest from its master cylinder to nearest. For most Grizzly layouts:
- Front system: right or left caliper farthest from the front master first (identify which is farthest by routing).
- Rear system: caliper farthest from the rear master first.
Two acceptable bleeding methods:
Method A TwoPerson Manual Pumping
- Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleed nipple and route into a catch bottle partially filled with a little fresh fluid to prevent air reentry.
- Have helper slowly pump the brake lever (or pedal) several times and then hold pressure.
- Open the bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn to allow fluid and air to flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the helper releases the lever/pedal.
- Repeat pumpholdopenclose cycles until fluid runs clear with no bubbles. Keep reservoir topped up between cycles to avoid drawing air into the master cylinder.
- Work through each caliper in sequence for both front and rear systems.
Method B Vacuum or Pressure Bleeder (Recommended for oneperson)
- Attach vacuum bleeder hose to the bleed nipple and run to a collection bottle. Apply vacuum and open the nipple.
- Top up reservoir as fluid is drawn out. Close nipple when flow is clear and bubblefree, then release vacuum.
- Repeat for all calipers in proper sequence.
Common Bleeding Tips
- Never let the reservoir run dry; that reintroduces air and means repeating the process.
- Use short bursts of pressure; long continuous force can pull air from seals.
- If stubborn air remains, gently tap caliper bodies and brake lines to dislodge trapped air pockets while cycling.
- Do not reuse old fluid. Always pour fresh fluid into the reservoir from a sealed container.
Finishing Up
- Once bleed is complete and each circuit delivers firm, consistent lever/pedal feel, tighten bleed nipples to spec and wipe clean.
- Top each reservoir to the proper level, reinstall diaphragms and caps, and ensure caps seal properly.
- Operate brakes repeatedly at low speed in a safe area to confirm firm braking and that no air remains in the system.
- Inspect all lines, fittings, banjo bolts and calipers for leaks. Torque any removed fittings to Yamaha specs where available.
- Dispose of used brake fluid at an approved collection facility.
Troubleshooting
- Spongy lever/pedal after thorough bleeding: rebleed, inspect master cylinder piston seals and caliper pistons for contamination or sticking.
- Persistent fluid loss: locate leak in lines, banjo fittings, master cylinder, caliper seals. Replace damaged components before reuse.
- Brake drag after bleeding: check caliper pistons returned fully and that pads are not binding on the rotor.
Maintenance & Final Notes
- Replace brake fluid every 12-24 months depending on use and exposure to moisture.
- While servicing brakes on the Grizzly 550 EPS, visually inspect EPS hoses and hydraulic pump for leaks or contamination and avoid contamination of EPS reservoir and components.
- Keep a maintenance log: record fluid type, date, and mileage/hours when changed.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2010 YAMAHA GRIZZLY55E ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2010 YAMAHA GRIZZLY55E ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2010 YAMAHA GRIZZLY55E ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2010 YAMAHA GRIZZLY55E ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2010 YAMAHA GRIZZLY55E 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.