How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI 4X4
Shop parts for a 2014 Polaris SPORTS800 ATV.
This stepbystep guide is written for owners of the 2014 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI 4x4 and is proprietary to MotoSport. Follow these instructions carefully to replace brake fluid and properly bleed the system so brakes stay strong and predictable.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (Polaris recommends DOT 4; check your owner's manual)
- Clear 1/4" hose to fit bleed nipple
- Catch bottle for old fluid
- Wrench for bleed nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm)
- Assistant or a vacuum/pressure brake bleeder
- Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
- Brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
- Torque wrench (for caliper bolts if removed)
Model notes specific to the 2014 Sportsman 800 EFI 4x4
- The Sportsman 800 uses a handlebar master cylinder for the front brakes and a footoperated master cylinder for the rear. Each caliper has a bleed nipple.
- There is no factory ABS on standard 2014 Sportsman 800 models bleeding is straightforward without ABS complications.
- Brake fluid is hygroscopic. Polaris and MotoSport recommend flushing/replace every 1-2 years depending on use and exposure to water.
- Avoid getting fluid on painted plastic or metal surfaces; DOT 4 will damage finishes & plastics. Clean spills immediately with water and brake cleaner.
- Inspect brake lines, hose fittings, master cylinder boots, and caliper pistons while bleeding; replace cracked hoses or leaking components before completing the job.
Preparation
- Park the ATV on level ground, engine off, and set the parking brake. Place wheels chocked if needed.
- Remove any rack panels or splash guards that block access to calipers or master cylinder reservoirs.
- Clean the reservoir caps and surrounding area to prevent contamination when opened.
- Top the master cylinder reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid before starting to avoid drawing air into the system.
General bleeding principles
- Always keep the reservoir(s) topped with fresh fluid during bleeding never let them run dry.
- Start with the caliper furthest from the master cylinder, then move to progressively closer calipers. For the handlebar master cylinder that controls the front, bleed the front caliper farther from the master first; for the rear master cylinder, bleed the rear caliper furthest from that reservoir first.
- Use a clear hose onto the bleed nipple and route into a catch bottle partially filled with old fluid to prevent air reentry.
- Dispose of old fluid responsibly do not dump it onto soil or into drains.
Stepbystep: Twoperson pump method
- Open the reservoir cap(s) and remove the rubber diaphragm if present. Keep clean and covered with a lintfree rag.
- Attach clear hose to the bleed nipple you are starting with and submerge the free end in the catch bottle.
- Have your assistant slowly pump the brake lever (or pedal) several times and hold it applied.
- With the lever/pedal held down, open the bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn until fluid flows into the hose and bubbles exit. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
- Repeat: pump, hold, open nipple to purge air, close nipple, release. Maintain reservoir level between cycles.
- Continue until clear fluid with no visible bubbles runs from the hose. Move to the next caliper following the furthesttoclosest rule.
- After final caliper is bled, pump the lever/pedal to confirm firm, consistent pressure. Tighten bleed nipples to spec (snug; do not overtorque). Replace reservoir diaphragm and cap.
Stepbystep: Vacuum or pressure bleeder method (single operator)
- Attach a vacuum pump to the caliper bleed nipple or attach a pressure bleeder to the master cylinder reservoir per the tool manufacturer's instructions.
- If using vacuum, pull vacuum at the caliper bleed nipple and open the nipple to draw fluid until clear and bubblefree fluid appears. Close nipple before removing hose.
- If using a pressure bleeder at the reservoir, pressurize the system to the tool's safe working pressure (follow tool instructions), then open each bleed nipple in sequence until clean fluid appears.
- Always keep the reservoir topped, and finish by confirming pedal/lever firmness.
Finishing steps
- Wipe all fittings clean, reinstall and tighten any components removed, and replace covers/panels.
- Check pedal/lever travel and brake function at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
- Check for leaks around bleed nipples, caliper seals, and master cylinder boots after the first short ride.
Troubleshooting
- Spongy brake feel after bleeding: repeat the bleed sequence, ensuring the reservoir never ran dry and that bleed nipples are fully closed between strokes.
- Persistent air: try bench bleeding the master cylinder (if removed), use a pressure bleeder, or perform a gravity bleed overnight from the furthest caliper back to the reservoir.
- Leaking caliper or master cylinder: replace the faulty unit. Seal kits exist for caliper piston seals but replace if corroded or damaged.
Maintenance tips & recommended intervals
- Replace brake fluid every 12-24 months depending on use and exposure to water and humidity.
- Inspect hoses, fittings, and boots at each oil change or seasonal service; replace any components showing cracks or swelling.
- Keep an extra small bottle of DOT 4 on hand for topping during trail repairs; store sealed and away from heat & moisture.
Following this MotoSport proprietary guide will keep the 2014 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI 4x4 braking system safe and responsive. If you encounter hardware failures or uncertain fluid compatibility, consult a qualified technician or MotoSport service specialists for parts and repair options.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2014 Polaris SPORTS800 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2014 Polaris SPORTS800 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2014 Polaris SPORTS800 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2014 Polaris SPORTS800 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Polaris SPORTS800 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.