How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP
Shop parts for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP. The 2016 Sportsman 570 SP uses two separate hydraulic circuits (front and rear) with individual master cylinders — both should be serviced. Use DOT 4 brake fluid unless your owner's manual specifies otherwise. Replace fluid at regular intervals or whenever contamination, spongy brakes, or a soft lever/pedal occurs.
Tools & supplies
- DOT 4 brake fluid (new, sealed bottle)
- Clear hose that fits bleed nipples
- Brake bleeder bottle or catch container
- Wrenches for bleed nipples (typically 8 mm or 10 mm)
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe for reservoir removal
- Transmission jack or ATV lift / ramps
- Clean rags, safety glasses, nitrile gloves
- Torque wrench (for caliper mounting bolts if removed)
- Optional: pressure bleeder or vacuum pump for one-person bleeding
Safety & prep
- Work on a level surface; block wheels and put key in OFF.
- Protect painted surfaces — brake fluid damages plastics and paint.
- Wear eye protection and gloves; DOT fluid is hygroscopic & corrosive.
- Have absorbent material ready to catch spills; dispose of old fluid properly.
Model-specific notes for the 2016 Sportsman Touring 570 SP
- The Sportsman 570 SP has separate front and rear master cylinders — service both circuits independently.
- Reservoirs are exposed under the handlebar area and near the rear brake pedal/footwell; some models have small translucent reservoirs simplifying level checks.
- There is no factory ABS on this model, so standard hydraulic bleeding is correct.
- If calipers or lines are original and older than 6-8 years, inspect hoses for cracks and replace if hardened or damaged; replace rubber components in direct contact with fluid when suspicious of contamination.
Step-by-step: flush & bleed
- Raise and secure the ATV to access wheels and provide clear working space. Remove wheels if needed to reach bleed nipples easily.
- Clean the area around both master cylinder reservoirs and bleed nipples to prevent contamination.
- Open the master cylinder reservoirs (front and rear). Siphon out old fluid with a turkey baster or syringe until most old fluid is removed, but do not let air into the system if possible.
- Refill each reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid to the proper level, leaving the cap loose so air can escape during bleeding. Keep the top covered to minimize moisture pickup.
- Identify the bleeding order: always start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder, then progress to the next farthest, finishing at the closest caliper. For the Sportsman Touring 570 SP that normally means: farthest rear caliper first, then nearer rear, then front calipers, but confirm by sight of hose routing — farthest to nearest.
- Attach a clear hose to the bleed nipple and run it into a catch bottle partially filled with some fresh fluid to prevent air from being sucked back in.
- Two-person squeeze method: One person slowly depresses the brake lever or pedal several times and holds it. The second person opens the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn until fluid & bubbles flow, then closes the nipple before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until no bubbles appear and fluid runs clear. Keep reservoir topped off during the process.
- One-person alternatives: use a pressure bleeder on the reservoir or a vacuum pump at each bleed nipple. If using a pressure bleeder, set low pressure (20-30 psi) and follow the device instructions. If using vacuum, attach hose and pull while pumping lever; keep reservoir topped up.
- Repeat bleeding cycles for each caliper in the order determined in step 5. Check and refill the reservoir frequently to avoid drawing air into the master cylinder.
- After finishing all calipers, with the brake system full and clean, cycle the brake lever/pedal to verify a firm feel. Tighten all bleed nipples securely (snug; typically low torque — ~8-12 in-lbs depending on nipple size). Do not overtighten.
- Clean all spilled fluid immediately, reinstall wheels if removed, torque wheel lug nuts per factory spec, lower the ATV, and recheck lever/pedal firmness when weight is on the machine.
Final checks & maintenance tips
- Test brakes at low speed in a safe area before returning to normal use.
- Inspect hoses, banjo fittings, and caliper seals for leaks after a short ride; re-torque fittings if needed.
- Replace brake pads if they have less than the minimum thickness; contaminated pads soaked with old fluid should be replaced.
- Record the service date and mileage. Plan to replace brake fluid every 1-2 years or according to use and exposure to moisture.
If you're unsure about any step or discover damaged lines, seized calipers, or persistent sponginess after bleeding, have the system inspected by a qualified technician to ensure safe operation.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2016 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP 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.