How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO

Shop parts for a 2014 Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO ATV.

This guide from MotoSport covers a complete, model-specific procedure to replace brake fluid and properly bleed the brake system on a 2014 Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO. Follow all safety steps, use the correct fluid, and dispose of old fluid responsibly.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (Polaris recommends DOT 4; use fresh, unopened fluid)
  • Clear tubing that fits the caliper bleed nipples
  • Catch bottle for old fluid
  • Wrench for bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm; confirm size)
  • Phillips and flat screwdrivers
  • Shop towels & gloves
  • Brake bleeder pump or vacuum pump (optional but recommended)
  • Torque wrench (for caliper/banjo bolts if removed)
  • Brake cleaner

Model-specific notes for the 2014 Sportsman WV850 HO

  • The WV850 HO uses hydraulic disc brakes front & rear; reservoir is located under the right front fender area in most WV850 configurations — confirm by removing required body panels for access.
  • This model typically uses a single master cylinder feeding multiple calipers via proportioning/valve networks; bleeding order should start at the caliper farthest from the master cylinder to ensure trapped air is removed.
  • There is no factory ABS system on this MMY so bleeding is a straightforward hydraulic procedure.
  • Inspect banjo bolt crush washers and brake lines for cracks or corrosion while replacing fluid; replace any worn hoses or crushed washers to avoid leaks.
  • If the bike has been used in deep water or mud, inspect wheel bearing seals and caliper piston boots for contamination before bleeding.

Safety first

  • Work on a level surface, with the vehicle securely supported on a lift or jack stands.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection. Brake fluid will damage painted surfaces.
  • Keep the reservoir cap closed when not actively adding fluid to avoid contamination and moisture absorption.
  • Never reuse brake fluid; it absorbs water and degrades performance.

Step-by-step: Replace brake fluid

  1. Remove necessary body panels to access the brake fluid reservoir and calipers. Clean around the reservoir cap before opening.
  2. Open the reservoir. Use a clean rag and remove old fluid level sensor connectors if they obstruct access. Note the current fluid level and color.
  3. Siphon or carefully remove most of the old fluid from the reservoir using a syringe or turkey baster. Do not let dirt enter the reservoir.
  4. Top the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid until full, leaving the cap loosely in place to reduce moisture exposure.

Step-by-step: Bleeding sequence

Bleed starting with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and finish at the nearest. For typical Sportsman routing this sequence is usually: rear caliper → front passenger-side caliper → front driver-side caliper. Confirm routing visually on your unit and adjust order accordingly.

  1. Attach a clear tube to the bleed nipple on the caliper. Put the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air from being drawn back in.
  2. Have an assistant slowly pump the brake lever/pedal 6–8 times and hold pressure, or use a hand/vacuum bleeder to pull fluid. If using the pump method, keep the lever held down while you open the bleed nipple one-quarter to one-half turn to allow fluid and air out, then close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever.
  3. Repeat pumping/opening cycles until clear fluid with no air bubbles flows into the catch bottle. Keep the master cylinder reservoir topped with fresh fluid throughout to avoid drawing new air into the system.
  4. When clear fluid flows and no bubbles appear, tighten the bleed nipple to the correct snugness (do not over-torque). Wipe any spilled fluid and cap the caliper.
  5. Move to the next caliper in the sequence and repeat the process.
  6. After bleeding all calipers, fill the reservoir to the proper level and reinstall the cap securely. Operate the brake lever/pedal several times to confirm firm feel.
  7. Road-test the ATV slowly in a safe area to verify braking performance. Re-check fluid level after a short test ride and re-torque any fittings if needed.

Additional tips & troubleshooting

  • If the lever or pedal remains spongy after bleeding, re-bleed the entire system using the same distant-to-near sequence and ensure no master cylinder seals are leaking air.
  • For stubborn air or collapsed caliper pistons, remove calipers and bench-bleed or rebuild pistons/seals as required.
  • Replace banjo bolts and crush washers whenever you disconnect the brake lines; torque to Polaris specifications.
  • Use only DOT 4 brake fluid unless the owner's manual specifies otherwise; mixing fluid types can damage seals and degrade performance.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid at a hazardous waste facility; do not pour down drains or on the ground.

Maintenance intervals

Change brake fluid every 2 years or sooner if the fluid appears dark, contaminated, or the brakes feel inconsistent. Inspect brake hardware each season and after heavy use.

Final checks

  • Confirm no leaks at bleed nipples, banjo fittings, or master cylinder.
  • Verify brake lever/pedal travel and engagement point are within normal range for your model.
  • Reinstall body panels and clean any areas where fluid contacted painted surfaces using brake cleaner immediately.

Following this MotoSport procedure will restore hydraulic integrity and braking performance on your 2014 Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO. If you encounter persistent issues, consult a qualified technician or contact MotoSport for parts and support.

Related Shopping Categories

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Shop Brake Lines for a 2014 Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Polaris Sportsman WV850 HO 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.