How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2012 Arctic Cat 350

Shop parts for a 2012 Arctic Cat 350 ATV.

This MotoSport guide shows a safe, methodical procedure to flush and replace the brake fluid on a 2012 Arctic Cat 350. Follow factory torque and safety practices, use recommended fluid, and work in a clean, well-ventilated area.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (use Arctic Cat spec if available) – do not mix with DOT 5 silicone.
  • Clear hose and small catch bottle.
  • Wrenches for bleeder nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm).
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe.
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, gloves and eye protection.
  • Brake bleeder kit or vacuum pump (optional, speeds process).
  • Torque wrench for reassembly (refer to service manual specs).

Model notes for the 2012 Arctic Cat 350

  • 2012 Arctic Cat 350 models use a hydraulic brake system that commonly specifies DOT 4 fluid – verify dot rating stamped on reservoir cap or in owner manual before starting.
  • The machine typically has separate circuits for front and rear calipers; treat each circuit separately and follow the “farthest-first” bleeding order relative to the master cylinder.
  • There is no ABS on this model, so conventional bleeding applies. Caliper hardware can seize from corrosion & mud; inspect slide pins and bleeder screws for rounding or damage before starting.
  • If pads are near end-of-life or calipers are sticky, replace or service those components before or during the brake-fluid job to avoid trapping debris in fresh fluid.

Preparation

  • Park ATV on level ground, engage park/brake, and secure with wheel chocks.
  • Clean area around reservoir and bleeder screws with brake cleaner – keep contaminants out of fluid.
  • Remove reservoir cap and diaphragm; use a turkey baster to extract most old fluid to minimize contamination while opening the system.
  • Top reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid until full, keep cap loosely installed to avoid spills but prevent debris entry.

Bleeding order

Always bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then proceed to the next farthest, finishing with the closest. On most Arctic Cat 350s this means: rear caliper(s) first, then front calipers (if dual front, bleed left then right depending on distance).

Manual pressure bleeding (pump & hold method)

  1. Attach clear hose to bleeder nipple and route into catch bottle with some fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  2. Have an assistant slowly apply steady brake pressure and hold the lever/pedal.
  3. Open bleeder nipple 1/4 to 1/2 turn to allow fluid to flow until bubbles stop; close nipple while lever/pedal is still held.
  4. Release lever/pedal; top up the reservoir immediately to avoid drawing air in.
  5. Repeat until fluid exiting is clean and bubble-free, then torque bleeder screw to spec and wipe clean.
  6. Move to the next caliper following bleed order. Keep reservoir level maintained throughout.

Vacuum or pressure bleeder method (preferred for single tech)

  1. Connect vacuum pump to bleeder nipple or attach a pressure bleeder to the reservoir per tool instructions.
  2. Open bleeder and draw fluid until it runs clear with no bubbles; keep reservoir topped with fresh fluid during process.
  3. Close bleeder, remove tool, torque bleed screw, and wipe area.

Flushing the master cylinder and reservoir

  • After calipers are bled, drain and refill the reservoir a final time to ensure fresh fluid throughout the master cylinder and lines.
  • Operate the lever/pedal several times, then check fluid clarity and repeat a short bleed if any air is suspected.

Final checks

  • Ensure bleeder screws and reservoir cap are tightened and clean; torque to spec where applicable.
  • Confirm lever/pedal firmness – responsive, firm feel without sponginess indicates air-free system.
  • Inspect brake lines, hoses, pads and rotors for wear, cracks or leaks.
  • Properly dispose of used brake fluid at a recycling facility – do not pour down drains.
  • Test ride at low speed in a safe area to bed in brakes and confirm performance before full use.

Common pitfalls & tips

  • Never let the reservoir run dry during bleeding – that reintroduces air into the master cylinder.
  • Use only the specified DOT fluid type; mixing DOT 4 and DOT 5 (silicone) is damaging.
  • If a bleeder screw is rounded or corroded, replace it before it breaks off in the caliper.
  • Sticky calipers or seized slide pins require caliper service to prevent uneven pad wear after fresh fluid is installed.
  • Keep fresh fluid containers sealed to avoid moisture absorption; brake fluid is hygroscopic and contamination shortens system life.

If you prefer a shop-quality tool, use a hand-held vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder to make the job quicker and help ensure a complete, air-free flush.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2012 Arctic Cat 350 ATV.

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Shop Brake Pads for a 2012 Arctic Cat 350 ATV.

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Shop Brake Tools for a 2012 Arctic Cat 350 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.