How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Suzuki King Quad 500AXi 4X4

Shop parts for a 2017 Suzuki King Quad 500AXi 4X4 ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2017 Suzuki King Quad 500AXi 4X4. Follow these steps carefully & use the correct tools and fluid to keep braking performance safe and consistent. All procedures assume the machine is cool, on level ground, and secured with wheels chocked.

What you’ll need

  • DOT-spec brake fluid (use DOT 3 or DOT 4 as specified by Suzuki; fresh, unopened bottle)
  • Clear hose that fits bleed nipple
  • Clean catch bottle or jar
  • Wrench for bleed nipples (use correct size and hand tight only)
  • Helper (for two-person method) or a vacuum or pressure brake bleeder
  • Clean rags, gloves, eye protection
  • Small funnel, turkey baster or syringe (for removing old fluid from reservoir)
  • Brake parts cleaner or isopropyl alcohol for cleaning spills

Model notes for the 2017 King Quad 500AXi 4X4

  • The King Quad 500AXi uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. There is no factory ABS system on most trims of this model year; bleeding is straightforward disc-system bleeding.
  • Brake fluid is hygroscopic — replace every 1-2 years or when moisture or contamination is suspected. If you tow, run heavy loads, or ride in wet / muddy environments frequently, check fluid sooner.
  • The master cylinder reservoir is located under the seat or a small access cover on the handlebar area depending on trim & configuration. Clean around the cap before opening to prevent contamination.
  • Use only fresh DOT-spec brake fluid. Never mix DOT 5 (silicone) with DOT 3/4 fluids.

Preparation

  • Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and block the wheels.
  • Remove seat or access panels to reach the master cylinder reservoir. Wipe the cap and surrounding area clean.
  • Inspect lines, hoses, calipers, and master cylinder for leaks, cracks, or damage. Replace damaged components before bleeding.
  • Open the reservoir cap and remove old fluid from the top with a syringe or turkey baster until level is low but not empty. Do not let air enter the master cylinder below the fluid level.
  • Top reservoir with fresh DOT 3/4 fluid to the fill mark. Keep the cap loosely fitted so it won’t contaminate if removed during bleeding.

Standard two-person bleed method (recommended for most owners)

  1. Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. Typical order: rear, right front, left front — verify routing on your machine and follow that order if different.
  2. Attach the clear hose to the bleed nipple on the caliper. Submerge the free end in a small bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  3. Have your helper sit on the machine and slowly pump the brake lever or pedal several times, then hold pressure.
  4. Open the bleed nipple about a 1/4 turn; fluid and bubbles will flow into the bottle. Close the nipple before your helper releases pressure.
  5. Repeat pump-hold-open-close until fluid coming out is clear and bubble-free. After each cycle, top up the master cylinder reservoir so it never runs low.
  6. When clear fluid appears, tighten the bleed nipple snugly and wipe clean. Move to the next caliper and repeat the process.
  7. After last caliper, pump the lever/pedal to confirm firm feel. Recheck reservoir level and top to the proper mark, then secure the cap.

Single-person vacuum or pressure bleeder method

  • If using a vacuum pump, attach the vacuum adapter to the bleed nipple, run vacuum while opening the nipple, and top up the reservoir as fluid is drawn through. Close nipple, then move to next caliper.
  • If using a pressure bleeder, fill the bleeder bottle with fresh fluid, pressurize per tool instructions, connect to the master cylinder reservoir, then open bleed nipples one at a time until fluid runs clear.
  • Both methods require frequently checking the reservoir and keeping contamination out.

Flushing the entire system (replacement)

  • To completely replace fluid, drain as much old fluid as possible from the reservoir first, then perform bleeding on each caliper until new fluid flows and no bubbles remain. Repeat a full cycle if the old fluid was heavily contaminated.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid properly — it is hazardous waste.

Final checks & tips

  • Wipe any spilled fluid immediately; brake fluid can damage paint and plastics.
  • Check for soft or spongey lever/pedal feel after bleeding. If still soft, inspect for air in system or a failing master cylinder or caliper seals that may require rebuild or replacement.
  • After reassembly, test brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding full speed or on technical terrain.
  • Record the date and mileage of the fluid change for maintenance history.
  • If you encounter persistent air, contaminated master cylinder, or leaking components, replace the faulty parts rather than repeatedly bleeding.

Torque & hardware notes

Tighten bleed nipples and banjo fittings snugly but avoid over-torquing. Use new crush washers on banjo bolts when reinstalling caliper lines. If you are unsure of torque values, tighten to a firm hand-sensible fit and consult a service manual or MotoSport parts & service specialists for exact specs.

When to seek professional service

If the brakes do not build firm pressure after proper bleeding, if you find corroded lines, or if you are not comfortable performing the procedure, have a qualified mechanic service the system. Proper braking performance is critical to safe operation.

Keep your King Quad 500AXi safe and responsive by replacing brake fluid on a regular schedule and using quality parts & supplies from MotoSport for repairs and maintenance.

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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.