How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS
Shop parts for a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through a safe, reliable brake fluid flush and bleed on the 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS (MMY). Follow these steps exactly to restore firm pedal feel, remove moisture and contaminants from the hydraulic system, and keep your Kodiak stopping correctly.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (fresh, unopened)
- Clear plastic tubing to fit bleeder nipples
- Catch bottle with a one-way check or clamp
- Brake bleeder kit or vacuum/pressure bleeder (optional but speeds the job)
- 10 mm wrench (bleeder nuts) and assorted metric sockets
- Phillips/flat screwdrivers, small pick
- Clean rags, isopropyl alcohol for cleanup
- Disposable gloves, safety glasses
- Service stand or ramps to lift the ATV safely
Safety & model notes
- 2017 Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS uses DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Do not mix DOT 3, DOT 4 & DOT 5 silicone; DOT 5 is incompatible.
- Work on a level surface; secure the ATV with the parking brake off during bleeding so pistons move freely.
- The Kodiak's rear IRS brake is a hydraulic circuit; treat front and rear as separate circuits if the master has dual circuits. Follow the sequence recommended below.
- Avoid getting fluid on paint, plastics or rubber components. Brake fluid can damage finishes; wipe spills immediately with a rag dampened with water or isopropyl alcohol.
- Inspect brake lines, hoses, calipers and pads for wear or leaks while you work. Replace damaged parts before bleeding.
Before you begin
- Park the Kodiak, chock wheels, and lift the wheels off the ground so calipers can be accessed and pistons can retract freely.
- Remove any plastics that block access to the master cylinder reservoir and bleeder nipples on calipers.
- Clean the reservoir cap area thoroughly to prevent contamination when opened.
Procedure: flush & bleed (recommended method)
- Open the master cylinder reservoir. Siphon out as much old fluid as possible with a syringe or turkey baster. Dispose of used fluid properly.
- Refill the reservoir to the max line with fresh DOT 4 fluid. Keep the cap loosely threaded to avoid contamination while preventing large debris fall-in.
- Identify bleeding order: always bleed from the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then progress to the nearest. For the Kodiak 700 this typically means: rear caliper (farthest), right front, then left front (nearest). If your master cylinder plumbing differs, use farthestnearest logic.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean fluid to avoid drawing air back in.
- With a helper: have them pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold pressure. While they hold, open the bleeder nipple one-quarter to one-half turn to let fluid & air escape. Close the nipple before they release the lever/pedal. Repeat until no air bubbles appear in the tubing and the fluid runs clear. Keep topping up the reservoir so it never runs low.
- If working solo: use a vacuum bleeder on the caliper bleeder or a pressure bleeder on the reservoir to pull/pressurize fluid through each circuit. Follow the bleeder tool instructions and maintain reservoir level.
- Work each caliper in sequence until all lines show clean fluid and no bubbles. Monitor reservoir level continuously and keep it above the minimum mark.
- After bleeding all calipers, tighten bleeder nipples to spec snugness (hand tighten then a small turn with wrench). Wipe fittings and inspect for leaks.
- Top off the reservoir to the full line, reinstall the cap and any removed plastics. Pump the brake lever/pedal several times to confirm firm, consistent pressure; there should be no sponginess or travel that indicates remaining air.
- Lower the ATV, test brakes at low speed in a safe area, and re-check bleeder nipples and reservoir for leaks and correct level after the first test rides.
Notes & troubleshooting
- If the lever/pedal remains soft after thorough bleeding, re-check for leaks, deteriorated hoses or a failing master cylinder. Replace faulty components before riding.
- If stubborn air persists, perform a bench bleed on the master cylinder (if removable) or use a pressure bleeder to push fluid from the reservoir through the system until clean.
- Replace brake pads if they're thin or contaminated. Pads that soak up fluid or are excessively glazed will compromise braking even with fresh fluid.
- Brake fluid should be changed every 1-2 years depending on use & moisture exposure. Heavy-duty or wet-environment riding warrants annual changes.
Final inspection
After a successful bleed and test ride, re-check reservoir level and bleeder nipples. Inspect lines, calipers and fittings for leaks. Record the service date and fluid type in your maintenance log.
Why MotoSport recommends professional service when needed
If you encounter stubborn air, internal master cylinder damage, leaking calipers, or uncertain fittings, have a trained technician perform the repair. Proper hydraulic function is critical to safe operation and the Kodiak's weight and capability demand correct braking performance.
Keep your Kodiak's brake system healthy and use quality DOT 4 fluid, proper tools, and good technique to ensure dependable stopping power.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS 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.