How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP

Shop parts for a 2017 Polaris SPORTS570SP ATV.

This MotoSport.com guide walks you step-by-step through replacing and bleeding the brake fluid on a 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP. Procedures below are written for the SP model's factory hydraulic system and include model-specific notes, safety reminders, and recommended tools & supplies.

Important model notes for the 2017 Polaris Sportsman 570 SP

  • The Sportsman 570 SP uses DOT 4 brake fluid. Use fresh, high-quality DOT 4 only; do not mix with DOT 5 (silicone).
  • The master cylinder reservoirs are on the handlebar for the front brake and a separate reservoir or remote line for the rear depending on equipment; locate them before starting.
  • This model does not have factory ABS. Bleeding is standard hydraulic bleeding without electronic cycling.
  • Stock brake lines and calipers use banjo bolts with copper crush washers at caliper fittingsreplace crush washers if leaking.
  • Work on a level surface with the engine off and ignition key removed. Keep brake fluid away from paint and plastics; it is corrosive to finishes.

Tools & supplies

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (new, unopened)
  • Brake bleeder kit or clear tubing and a catch bottle
  • Wrenches/sockets for bleeder screws and banjo bolts (typically 8-11 mm)
  • Clean rags, shop towels, and isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
  • Torque wrench for reassembly (optional but recommended)
  • Replacement copper crush washers for banjo bolts (if needed)
  • Gloves and eye protection

Preparation

  1. Park the ATV on a level surface and secure it with the parking brake and engine off. Use a center stand or jack if needed to access wheels freely.
  2. Remove any body panels that restrict access to calipers or master cylinder reservoirs.
  3. Clean the area around reservoirs and bleeder screws to prevent contamination. Place rags under work areas to catch spills.
  4. Open the front and rear master cylinder reservoirs. Wipe the caps' mating surfaces clean before removing caps to avoid dirt falling in.
  5. Top reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid but do not overfill. Keep the fluid level at or just below the max line during bleeding to avoid introducing air.

Bleed sequence strategy

Always follow the "farthest from the master cylinder first" rule: start with the caliper located farthest from the brake master cylinder, then work toward the closest caliper. On the Sportsman 570 SP that typically means:

  • Rear caliper (if the rear is hydraulically operated and located farthest)
  • Front passenger-side caliper
  • Front driver-side caliper (closest on most setups)

Confirm master cylinder locations visually before starting; the sequence above applies in most stock configurations.

Step-by-step brake fluid replacement & bleeding

  1. Attach clear tubing to the bleeder screw of the first (farthest) caliper and route the other end into a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air backflow.
  2. Have an assistant slowly depress the brake lever/pedal several times and hold it down. If you are solo, use a one-way vacuum bleeder to draw fluid while you operate the wheel-side bleeder.
  3. Open the bleeder screw about 1/4 turn while the lever/pedal is held. Fluid and air bubbles will flow into the tubing. Close the bleeder screw before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat the pump-open-close cycle until no air bubbles appear and the expelled fluid is clear. Keep an eye on the reservoir and top with fresh DOT 4 frequently so air cannot be drawn into the system.
  5. When clear, tighten the bleeder screw to the manufacturer's snug specification (finger-tight plus a quarter-turn with the wrench) and wipe away any spillage. Replace tubing to the next caliper and repeat.
  6. Bleed each caliper in sequence (farthest to nearest). For dual front calipers, bleed the passenger-side first if it is farther from the master cylinder.
  7. After final caliper, bleed the master cylinder itself if it has a bleed port or can be bled by cycling lever/pedal with the reservoir cap removed. Ensure no trapped air remains in the master cylinder bore.
  8. Once bleeding is complete, top the reservoir to the proper level, reinstall reservoir caps securely, and clean all fluid residues with isopropyl alcohol. Replace any damaged crush washers or hardware as needed.
  9. Test for firm brake lever/pedal feel with the ATV stationary. If the lever feels spongy, repeat bleeding until firm. Do not ride until brakes feel solid and there are no leaks.

Bleeding tips & troubleshooting

  • If bubbles persist, inspect hoses and the master cylinder for internal leaks; collapsed or deteriorated hoses can admit air and should be replaced.
  • Use a vacuum or pressure bleeder for a one-person, cleaner method. MotoSport recommends using a quality bleeder for stubborn systems.
  • Replace copper crush washers whenever you remove banjo bolts to ensure a proper seal.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure of brake components to open air while bleeding to prevent moisture contamination of the fluid.
  • If brake performance is still poor after bleeding, inspect pads, rotors, and caliper pistons for contamination or damage. Pad replacement and rotor service may be required.

Torque & hardware notes

  • Banjo bolts and caliper mounting bolts should be torqued to Polaris specifications when reinstalled; if factory specs are not available, tighten fittings snugly and verify no leaks. Replace any stripped or corroded hardware.
  • Always replace crush washers on banjo bolts to prevent leaks.

Final checks before riding

  • Confirm no leaks at bleeder screws, banjo fittings, or master cylinder.
  • Confirm brake lever/pedal is firm and returns properly. Conduct a slow-speed test ride in a safe area to verify braking performance.
  • Dispose of used brake fluid responsibly at an approved facility. Do not pour down drains or on the ground.

MotoSport maintenance recommendation

MotoSport.com recommends replacing brake fluid every 1-2 years for ATV use, sooner if you ride in wet or extreme conditions. Keeping brake fluid fresh preserves braking performance and reduces corrosion risk in the system.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Polaris SPORTS570SP ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Polaris SPORTS570SP ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Polaris SPORTS570SP ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Polaris SPORTS570SP ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Polaris SPORTS570SP 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.