How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5)

Shop parts for a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5) ATV.

This MotoSport.com proprietary guide walks you through a safe, complete brake-fluid replacement and bleeding procedure tailored to the 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5). Follow these steps exactly, use proper PPE, and work on a level surface. If you’re unsure at any step, contact a certified technician.

What you need

  • Honda-approved brake fluid (see owner’s manual). Use DOT rating specified by Honda; if uncertain use DOT 3 as listed for many 420 Rancher models.
  • Clear plastic tubing that seals on bleeder nipple
  • Catch bottle for used fluid
  • 8mm open-end wrench or correct bleeder wrench
  • Syringe or fluid pump for reservoir evacuation (optional but recommended)
  • Clean shop rags and brake-clean spray
  • Latex or nitrile gloves and eye protection
  • Floor jack or ramps and stands to support vehicle safely when wheels removed

Model notes & safety reminders for the FA5 Rancher

  • The 2017 Rancher 420 DCT IRS uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. There is no ABS system to complicate bleeding, but the DCT transmission and IRS suspension are separate systems — avoid spilling fluid on seals, CV boots or painted surfaces.
  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic and corrosive. Keep the reservoir cap sealed except when adding fluid. Remove any contamination immediately with brake cleaner and a rag.
  • If the machine has been sitting in wet conditions or you notice a spongy pedal/lever, flush the fluid rather than only topping off.
  • Wheel or caliper removal is not required for basic bleeding, but removing wheels gives better access and visibility. Use jack stands; never rely on a jack alone.

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, engage parking brake, put transmission in park/neutral per manual, and remove the key.
  2. Clean the master cylinder reservoir cap area to prevent contamination. Remove cap and diaphragm carefully.
  3. Inspect hoses, lines and calipers for leaks, cracks or deteriorated rubber. Replace any damaged components before bleeding.
  4. Top the reservoir to the maximum mark with fresh brake fluid; keep the cap loosely on to limit contamination but allow venting while working.

Two methods: pressure-free one-person & two-person pump-and-hold

Method A – Two-person pump-and-hold (recommended for controlled bleeding)

  1. Start with the wheel/caliper furthest from the master cylinder and work to the closest: typical sequence front right, front left, then rear.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleeder nipple and put the other end in a catch bottle half-filled with old fluid to prevent drawing air back in.
  3. Assistant pumps the brake lever/pedal several times and holds firm. Open the bleeder nipple 1/2 turn with the wrench; fluid and air will flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat pump-hold-open-close until fluid runs clear and bubble-free from the tubing. Keep reservoir topped between cycles to avoid introducing air.
  5. When finished at that caliper, tighten bleeder nipple to a snug fit, wipe clean, then move to next caliper and repeat.
  6. After the final caliper, pump the lever/pedal to confirm firm feel. Check reservoir level and reinstall cap & diaphragm. Dispose of used fluid per local regulations.

Method B – One-person gravity or vacuum bleed

  1. Gravity bleed: open the bleeder and let fluid flow slowly until clear. This is slow and riskier for air retention; keep reservoir well topped.
  2. Vacuum bleed: use a hand vacuum pump on the bleeder nipple to draw fluid through while keeping reservoir topped. This is effective for one person and reduces the chance of sucking air back into the system.
  3. Follow the same caliper sequence and finish with a firm lever/pedal check.

Complete fluid replacement/flush procedure

  1. If you want a full flush rather than a bleed, remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible with a syringe or turkey baster.
  2. Refill the reservoir with fresh fluid. Bleed the calipers in sequence until the expelled fluid runs clear and the reservoir level remains stable.
  3. Repeat reservoir evacuation and refill if the system was heavily contaminated until the outflow is clear.

Final checks

  • Verify bleeder nipples are properly tightened but do not overtighten. Clean any spilled fluid immediately.
  • Test brake lever/pedal for firm engagement before riding. If it feels spongy, re-bleed.
  • After a short low-speed test ride, re-check reservoir level and bleeder fittings for leaks. Re-torque any fasteners if necessary.
  • Record the service date and fluid type in your maintenance log. Brake fluid should be replaced per the Honda schedule or if moisture contamination is suspected.

Torque & fastener notes

Use factory torque values for caliper and caliper-bracket bolts when reinstalling wheels or components. If you don’t have the service manual on hand, tighten to a firm OEM-specified torque or consult a MotoSport service specialist for values rather than guessing.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft lever/pedal after thorough bleeding indicates possible master cylinder seal failure, collapsed flexible hose, or internal caliper leak — inspect and replace components as needed.
  • If air keeps reappearing, inspect lines and fittings for leaks, and ensure reservoir cap vent is not clogged.

Properly bled brakes are critical to safe operation on the Rancher 420. When in doubt, have a qualified technician at a MotoSport-recommended shop complete the service.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5) ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5) ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5) ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5) ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Honda Rancher 420 4X4 DCT IRS (FA5) 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.