How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP

Shop parts for a 2018 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP ATV.

This MotoSport-exclusive guide walks you through safely flushing old brake fluid and bleeding the hydraulic system on a 2018 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP. Follow these steps carefully & consult your Polaris service manual for any torque specs or model-specific illustrations.

Safety & preparation

  • Work on a cool, level surface. Park on the center stand or use jack stands rated for ATV use.
  • Wear eye protection and nitrile gloves. Brake fluid is corrosive to painted surfaces & plastics.
  • Have new DOT 4 brake fluid on hand unless your manual specifies otherwise. Never reuse old fluid or mix different fluid types.
  • Gather tools: clear plastic tubing, catch bottle, wrench for bleeder nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm), funnel or fluid syringe, clean rags, turkey baster or vacuum pump if doing full reservoir flush, and optionally a one-way bleeder or vacuum bleeder for single-person operation.
  • Protect painted surfaces with shop towels & cover the calipers and master cylinder area where spills can occur.

Model-specific notes for the 2018 Sportsman Touring 570 SP

  • The master cylinder reservoir is located near the handlebar area. Keep the reservoir cap sealed when not topping up to minimize moisture contamination.
  • The 570 SP is typically equipped with independent front and rear hydraulic calipers; bleeding order should follow the standard "farthest from master cylinder first" approach for best results.
  • If your unit has power steering (EPS) or optional accessories with hydraulic lines nearby, take care to identify brake plumbing to avoid cross-contamination or accidental damage.
  • Inspect brake hoses for swelling, cracking or leaks while servicing the system. Replace any suspect lines with OEM or MotoSport-approved replacements.

Two approved methods

Method A Two-person pump & hold (recommended if you have an assistant)

  1. Raise wheels or otherwise provide access to each bleeder nipple on calipers. Remove wheel(s) if needed.
  2. Clean the bleeder nipple and fit clear tubing over it. Place the other end of tubing into a catch bottle partly filled with fresh brake fluid to prevent air backflow.
  3. Open the reservoir and top to the MAX line with new DOT 4 fluid. Keep the cap loosely on or covered to reduce contamination; check level frequently during bleeding.
  4. Determine bleeding sequence: start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. Typical sequence on this AWD-style ATV: passenger rear, driver rear, right front, left front. If in doubt, identify master cylinder outlet and follow far-to-near logic.
  5. At the first caliper, have your helper slowly squeeze the brake lever/pedal several times then hold pressure. Open the bleeder nipple about a quarter turn until fluid and air bubble flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the helper releases pressure. Repeat until only clear fluid with no air appears, while keeping reservoir topped up.
  6. Repeat for each caliper in sequence, ensuring fluid level never falls below the MIN mark in the reservoir.
  7. When finished, tighten bleeder nipples to snug plus your manual-recommended angle if specified. Clean any spilled fluid, torque wheel fasteners to spec if wheels were removed, and check lever/pedal feel — it should be firm with minimal travel.
  8. Record the service date & fluid type used; perform a short low-speed test ride to verify braking performance before normal use.

Method B Vacuum or one-way bleeder (single person)

  1. Attach a vacuum bleeder or a one-way vacuum bottle to the bleeder nipple. Set reservoir topped and open cap slightly to allow air to escape.
  2. Apply vacuum and open the bleeder nipple. Pull fluid until clear, monitoring and refilling the reservoir frequently.
  3. Work through the same farthest-to-closest sequence. Close each bleeder while vacuum is applied or immediately after to prevent air re-entry.
  4. Verify firm pedal/lever feel and re-tighten bleeders. Dispose of used fluid responsibly.

Full reservoir flush (recommended every 1-2 years)

  • Use a turkey baster or fluid syringe to remove most old fluid from the reservoir, then refill with new DOT 4.
  • Bleed each caliper using Method A or B until fluid exiting is the new fluid color and free of air.
  • This flush reduces moisture buildup and helps maintain boiling point & system longevity.

Notes, tips & troubleshooting

  • If you see persistent air or soft lever feel after bleeding, suspect a leak, collapsed hose, or master cylinder issue. Pressure-test the system and replace faulty components.
  • Never squeeze the brake lever with the reservoir cap removed. This can allow air into the system and compromise the bleed.
  • Paint damage from spills is not covered under warranty; wipe fluid immediately with a wet rag and rinse with water.
  • Replace rubber seals or bleeder screws that are rounded, corroded or leaking. Use replacement parts designed for the 2018 Sportsman Touring 570 SP.
  • After bleeding, pump the brakes from stationary to build pressure before riding. Perform a controlled brake test at low speed to confirm performance.

Disposal & maintenance interval

  • Dispose of used brake fluid as hazardous waste according to local regulations.
  • Brake fluid typically should be replaced every 12-24 months depending on use & exposure to moisture. High-humidity or heavy-duty use warrants more frequent service.

Following this MotoSport-specific procedure will help keep the 2018 Polaris Sportsman Touring 570 SP braking system safe & reliable. If you encounter unexpected problems, contact a certified Polaris technician or visit your local MotoSport service partner for assistance.

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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.