How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4

Shop parts for a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 (MMY). Follow these steps carefully to restore pedal/lever feel and remove moisture-contaminated fluid. If your machine is fitted with any aftermarket brake components or a factory ABS/linked system, see the "Model notes & cautions" section below before proceeding.

Tools & materials

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (Yamaha recommends DOT 4 for best performance)
  • Clear plastic hose that fits bleeder nipples
  • Small catch bottle (for old fluid)
  • Rubber gloves, eye protection
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol (for cleanup)
  • Flathead screwdriver and 8mm or 10mm wrench (verify bleeder nut size)
  • Brake bleeder pump or vacuum tool (optional but speeds job)
  • Jack or stands to lift wheels for access (if needed)
  • Shop manual or pen & phone to note sequence

Preparation

  • Park on level ground, engage parking brake, kill engine and remove key.
  • Clean around each brake fluid reservoir and master cylinder cap to prevent contamination.
  • Locate reservoirs: the front master cylinder is on the handlebar; the rear master cylinder is mounted near the rear brake assembly (check by following the rear brake line from the pedal area).
  • Remove the reservoir caps slowly to relieve any pressure. Do not let dirt fall into the reservoirs.
  • Protect painted surfaces with rags; brake fluid will damage paint.

General bleed strategy

Always replace old fluid with fresh DOT 4. Use the "farthest-from-master first" bleeding sequence: start at the caliper/fitting farthest from the master cylinder, then work back toward the master. This ensures trapped air is pushed out of the system.

Step-by-step bleed procedure (manual pump method)

  1. Top off the reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid so it is near the full mark. Do not reuse fluid drained from the system.
  2. Attach clear hose to the bleeder nipple on the farthest caliper; put the other end into a catch bottle half-filled with a little fresh fluid to prevent air reintroduction.
  3. Have an assistant slowly operate the brake lever/pedal 5-10 times, then hold it down steady. If you're doing front brake levers, use the lever; for rear, use the rear pedal.
  4. With the lever/pedal held, open the bleeder nut about 1/4 turn so fluid and air flow into the hose. Close the bleeder while the lever/pedal is still held. Repeat until no bubbles appear and clean fluid flows.
  5. Top off reservoir periodically between calipers so it never runs low; exposed master cylinder lets air into the system.
  6. Proceed to the next-farthest caliper and repeat steps 2-5 until you finish with the caliper closest to the master cylinder.
  7. After final caliper, squeeze the lever/pedal several times to confirm a firm feel. If it feels spongy, cycle the bleed procedure again.
  8. Clean all fittings, torque the bleeder nuts snug (do not over-torque), and replace reservoir caps securely.

Vacuum or pressure bleeder method (recommended if available)

  • If using a vacuum pump, attach to the bleeder nipple and suck until clear fluid without bubbles flows. Work from farthest to nearest as above. Monitor reservoir fluid level closely.
  • With a pressure bleeder, pressurize the master reservoir per tool instructions and open each bleeder until clear fluid flows. This method is cleaner and allows one-person operation.

Post-bleed checks & break-in

  • Verify lever/pedal firmness at rest and with wheel rotation locked (if safe to do so).
  • Wipe any spilled fluid, inspect lines for leaks, and test brakes at low speed in a safe area before full use.
  • New fluid can require light bedding: perform a few gentle stops to bring the system up to temperature and seat components before heavy braking.

Disposal & safety

  • Brake fluid is corrosive and hygroscopic. Dispose of old fluid per local hazardous-waste regulations; do not pour down drains.
  • Avoid skin and eye contact; if fluid contacts paint, rinse immediately with plenty of water and then isopropyl alcohol to minimize damage.

Model notes & cautions for the 2014 Grizzly 700 4X4 (MMY)

  • Factory system uses DOT 4 brake fluid. While DOT 3 is compatible chemically, DOT 4 has a higher boiling point – recommended for this application.
  • If your Grizzly has factory-linked brakes or optional ABS/traction control, refer to a dealer or your MotoSport technician before bleeding. Some systems require specific procedures or specialized tools to avoid introducing air into modulators or valves.
  • Aftermarket master cylinders, calipers or braided lines can change bleeding sequence or required bleed fittings. When installing parts from MotoSport, follow the component manufacturer’s bleed recommendations in addition to this guide.
  • 2014 Grizzly owners often report heavy-duty use in mud & water. After deep-water crossings, recheck fluid for contamination and repeat bleed if water ingress is suspected; water lowers boil point and accelerates corrosion.
  • Regular service interval: inspect brake fluid annually and replace every 1-2 years depending on use and exposure to moisture. Riders who ride aggressively or in wet conditions should flush fluid more frequently.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent spongy lever after thorough bleeding: check for collapsed flexible hose, leaking caliper seals, or air trapped in ABS modulators. Replace damaged rubber lines or seals and re-bleed.
  • Lever goes to the bar immediately: check for internal master cylinder seal failure or a failed caliper piston. Inspect components and replace as needed.

Performing a full brake fluid change and proper bleed restores stopping performance and safety. If you encounter unusual resistance or are unsure about ABS/linked brake components, contact a MotoSport-trained technician for model-specific assistance.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2014 Yamaha Grizzly 700 4X4 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.