How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4

Shop parts for a 2013 YAMAHA GRIZZLY700 ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive procedure walks you through draining, flushing, and bleeding the brake system on a 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4. Follow each step carefully, wear proper PPE, and work on a cool, level machine. This guide is specific to the Grizzly 700's hydraulic layout and common service points.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
  • Clear vinyl hose (fits bleed nipple)
  • Catch bottle, clean container, funnel
  • Brake bleeder tool or vacuum pump (recommended)
  • Wrenches for bleed nipples and banjo bolts (metric)
  • Clean shop rags, gloves, eye protection
  • Small flat blade for reservoir cover clips
  • Brake parts cleaner
  • Stainless-steel crush washers if you remove banjo bolts
  • Service manual or phone for reference to component locations

Model notes — 2013 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4

  • The Grizzly 700 uses a conventional hydraulic braking system (no factory ABS). DOT 4 fluid is the correct spec; do not mix with silicone fluids.
  • Master cylinder reservoirs are located on the right handlebar for the front and near the rear brake pedal for the rear system (confirm on your unit — some models route the rear reservoir under panels).
  • Brake lines are routed and secured to the frame; inspect for chafing, cracking, or hardening. Replace any damaged hoses before bleeding.
  • Banjo bolt connections use crush washers; replace washers when reassembling to prevent leaks.
  • The Grizzly's calipers are accessible; lift wheels off the ground as needed for comfort and full pedal travel during bleeding.
  • If you removed wheels, rotors, or calipers for service, clean mating surfaces and torque bolts per Yamaha specs in your service manual.

Safety first

  • Work on a level surface with the engine off and key removed.
  • Brake fluid damages paint & plastics — protect bodywork and immediately wipe spills with clean water.
  • Never reuse old brake fluid; dispose of it according to local regulations.
  • Do not let the master cylinder reservoir run dry during bleeding — air in the system will require repeating the procedure.

Overview of the process

Bleed from the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first and finish with the closest. On the Grizzly 700 this typically means: rear caliper, then right front, then left front. Use a vacuum bleeder for a fast, single-technician job or a two-person pump-and-open method. Replace fluid completely by repeatedly flushing until new fluid runs clear and free of moisture/contaminants.

Step-by-step: Full fluid replacement and bleed

  1. Preparation
    • Park ATV on level surface. Secure with park brake off (so pedal can move) and wheels chocked if lifted.
    • Remove plastic panels if needed to access reservoirs and bleed screws.
    • Clean reservoir caps of dirt; open caps to prevent contamination when topping fluid.
    • Use rags to mask paint and bodywork under reservoirs and calipers.
  2. Drain old fluid from reservoirs
    • Use a syringe or siphon to remove as much old fluid from each reservoir as possible. Do not mix old and new fluid in your bowls.
    • Refill reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the "MAX" line. Keep caps loose but sealed with clean cover while you work.
  3. Bleed order and setup
    • Identify bleed nipple locations: rear caliper, then right front caliper, then left front caliper.
    • Attach clear vinyl hose to the bleed nipple and submerge the other end in a small catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air re-entry.
    • If using a vacuum bleeder, attach to the bleed nipple and apply steady vacuum per tool instructions.
  4. Vacuum-bleed method (recommended for single tech)
    • Open bleed nipple ~1/4 turn. Apply vacuum and slowly operate the front lever or rear pedal several times to move fluid through (or if using a bench-style bleeder, pump per tool instructions).
    • Allow fluid to flow until it runs clear and bubble-free, then tighten the nipple while maintaining vacuum.
    • Top off the reservoir as needed to prevent it running dry.
    • Repeat for each caliper in the specified order: rear → right front → left front. For front dual calipers, bleed the outer then inner pistons if separate bleed screws are present.
  5. Two-person pump-and-hold method
    • Have assistant slowly pump the brake lever/pedal 3–5 times and hold pressure. Open the bleed nipple to let fluid and bubbles escape, then close it. Repeat until fluid is clear.
    • Always close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever to avoid drawing air in.
    • Top up reservoir frequently.
  6. Reverse or pressure method (optional)
    • Reverse bleeding (pushing fluid from caliper up to master) is useful for stubborn air; use a pressure bleeder that feeds the reservoir with new fluid and opens caliper nipples one at a time until clear.
  7. Final checks and reassembly
    • Torque any banjo bolts and reservoir caps to factory specs if available; replace crush washers on banjo bolts when removed.
    • Clean any spilled fluid, reinstall panels, and verify bleed screws are tight and leak-free.
    • With engine off, apply brake lever/pedal several times; it should feel firm and consistent. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
    • Lower ATV, remove chocks, and perform a slow low-speed test ride in a safe area to confirm braking performance.

Troubleshooting & tips

  • Persistent sponginess usually indicates trapped air or insufficient reservoir level; re-bleed with attention to keeping the reservoir topped.
  • If you see rusty or dark fluid with debris, consider flushing the whole system repeatedly until flow is clear. Replace lines or calipers if corrosion is internal.
  • Replace rubber parts (hoses, seals) showing cracks or swelling. Old hoses can collapse internally and cause poor brake response.
  • If you remove wheel or caliper hardware, inspect rotor for wear or warping and pads for even wear; replace as needed.
  • Always use fresh, unopened DOT 4 fluid and store the bottle tightly sealed to avoid moisture pickup.

Disposal

Used brake fluid is hazardous. Collect in a sealed container and dispose of it at an approved hazardous waste facility.

Final reminder

Brakes are critical safety systems. If you have any doubt about procedure or component condition, consult a certified technician or refer to Yamaha service documentation before riding.

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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.