How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Textron Alterra 500

Shop parts for a 2018 Textron Alterra 500 ATV.

This MotoSport guide walks you through safely draining, flushing, and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2018 Textron Alterra 500. Procedures are written for the typical two-circuit ATV brake system found on the Alterra 500. Consult your owner’s manual for fluid spec confirmation before beginning.

What you need

  • Brake fluid: OEM spec DOT4 (verify in owner’s manual)
  • Clear bleed tubing and catch bottle
  • Brake bleeder wrench or correctly sized open-end wrench
  • Vacuum bleeder pump or helper for manual pedal/lever pumping
  • Clean rags, latex gloves, safety glasses
  • Brake cleaner and small wire brush
  • Torque wrench for banjo bolts if replacing components
  • Replacement parts as needed: hoses, caliper seals, pads, rotors

Notes specific to the 2018 Textron Alterra 500

  • The Alterra 500 commonly uses DOT4 brake fluid at the OEM fill. Always confirm in the manual before topping off.
  • Master cylinder reservoirs are small and exposed on the handlebar mount for the front lever and near the rear brake pedal for the rear circuit. Keep reservoirs capped and clean to avoid contamination.
  • Brake lines on the Alterra run externally across the frame and can rub on chassis or racks. Inspect lines for chafing, cracking, or swelling and replace if any damage is found.
  • Caliper mounting bolts and banjo bolt hardware should be inspected and replaced if rounded or corroded. Use new crush washers on banjo bolts when reassembling.
  • The Alterra does not usually have ABS, so bleeding is conventional; there are no electronic bleed routines required.

Safety first

  • Work on level ground with the machine stable on a stand or blocks.
  • Wear eye protection and gloves. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint; protect painted surfaces and immediately wipe spills.
  • Do not let brake fluid contact plastic lens, painted surfaces, or rubber not designed for brake fluid.

Preparation

  1. Park ATV on level ground, secure it, and remove keys.
  2. Clean around reservoir caps to prevent dirt falling in when opened.
  3. Remove reservoir caps and diaphragms; tuck them in clean rags to avoid contamination.
  4. Inspect lines, calipers, pads, and rotors for wear or leaks. Replace any damaged hardware before bleeding.
  5. Have fresh DOT4 fluid ready and the catch bottle set with clear tubing.

General bleeding strategy

Always keep the master cylinder reservoir at least partially full during the process to avoid introducing air. Bleed the caliper farthest from the master cylinder first, then move closer. For Alterra systems that have separate front and rear master reservoirs, treat each circuit independently: bleed the circuit on the same reservoir from farthest caliper toward the master.

Step-by-step method A – Two-person pump method

  1. Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleed nipple and submerge the other end in a catch bottle with a little old fluid to prevent air backflow.
  2. One person pumps the brake lever or pedal slowly 6–8 times and holds it down. The other person opens the bleed nipple about a quarter to half turn to allow fluid and air to escape, then closes it before the lever/pedal is released. Repeat until fluid runs clear and air bubbles stop appearing.
  3. Top off the reservoir between cycles. Never let the reservoir run dry.
  4. Once clear, tighten the bleed nipple to snug, remove tubing, wipe any spilled fluid, and reinstall cap.
  5. Repeat for the next caliper in sequence, finishing with the caliper closest to the master cylinder.

Step-by-step method B – Vacuum bleeder (single tech)

  1. Connect vacuum pump to the caliper bleed nipple using clear tubing and run vacuum to pull fluid into the catch bottle while the reservoir is topped and open.
  2. Open the bleed nipple and allow fluid to flow until it runs clear without bubbles. Close the nipple before removing vacuum.
  3. Top off reservoir as needed and repeat at each caliper in the correct sequence.

Replacing brake fluid (complete flush)

  1. Perform the chosen bleeding method until old fluid is fully replaced by new fluid and runs clear at each caliper outlet.
  2. When finished, ensure reservoirs are filled to the correct level, caps and diaphragms are reinstalled, and all bleed nipples are torqued to spec or tightened snugly.
  3. Clean all fluid traces with brake cleaner and a rag.

Post-bleed checks

  • Verify firm lever and pedal feel at rest and under light application. A spongy feel indicates remaining air.
  • Check for leaks at bleeder nipples, banjo bolts, and line fittings.
  • Spin wheels and confirm calipers do not drag after reassembly.
  • Perform a low-speed, controlled brake test in a safe area to confirm braking performance before returning to normal riding.

Common troubleshooting

  • Persistent soft lever: re-bleed, inspect master cylinder for internal seal leaks, and check for collapsed brake hoses.
  • Contaminated or dark fluid: full flush required; do not re-use old fluid.
  • Paint damage from spilled fluid: treat immediately. Rinse with plenty of water and use mild detergent if needed; fluid will etch clear coat quickly.

Maintenance tips for Alterra 500 owners

  • Bleed brakes annually or sooner after wet storage, heavy use, or prolonged high-temperature operation.
  • Replace brake fluid every 1–2 years to maintain performance and corrosion protection.
  • Keep a small supply of DOT4 fluid and a compact bleed kit in your home shop for quick maintenance.
  • When replacing hoses or calipers, always use new copper crush washers and torque hardware to OEM specs.

Follow MotoSport’s step-by-step process and perform thorough inspections while the brake system is open. Proper bleeding and fresh DOT4 fluid restore braking performance and safety on your Textron Alterra 500. Replace worn hoses, pads, or calipers as necessary and recheck the system before every ride.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Textron Alterra 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Textron Alterra 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Textron Alterra 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Textron Alterra 500 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 Textron Alterra 500 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.