How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Textron Alterra 700
Shop parts for a 2018 TEXTRON ALT700 ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2018 Textron Alterra 700. Follow these steps for a clean, safe job and pay attention to model-specific notes for the Alterra 700.
Tools & supplies
- DOT brake fluid (use DOT 4 unless manual states otherwise)
- Clear plastic tubing to fit bleed nipples
- Catch bottle or jar
- Brake bleeder wrench or appropriately sized open-end wrench
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe (for reservoir fluid removal)
- Clean rags and gloves
- Torque wrench (for fastener reassembly)
- Jack or ramps and stands to safely access wheels (if needed)
- Assistant for manual pumping method (optional if using one-man vacuum or pressure bleeder)
Safety & prep
- Work on a level surface. Block wheels and use stands for stability.
- Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastics. Wipe spills immediately and protect painted surfaces.
- Keep reservoir cap and system clean — contaminants cause spongy brakes.
- Always replace fluid with new DOT grade as specified. Don't mix DOT 3, 4, and 5 (silicone) incompatibly.
What's specific to the 2018 Textron Alterra 700
- Reservoir location: master cylinder reservoir is mounted on the handlebar for the front brake and on the rear brake master cylinder near the frame for the rear system depending on model trim. Confirm which reservoir feeds which caliper before starting.
- The Alterra 700 typically uses DOT 4 fluid from the factory. Verify your owner's manual if unsure.
- Bleed nipple access: front calipers sit behind the wheels and are accessible after removing wheels on some wheel/guard configurations. Rear caliper access can be tight due to swingarm and skid protection — plan for wheel removal if needed.
- Some 2018 Alterra models have banjo-bolted brake lines at calipers. Inspect crush washers and replace if deformed or leaking when you disconnect lines.
- ABS: the base Alterra 700 is not ABS-equipped. If your unit has ABS or additional electronics, follow service manual procedures to avoid triggering faults.
Step-by-step: flush & bleed (recommended procedure)
- Park the vehicle, turn off the engine, and remove ignition key.
- Clean the reservoir caps with a rag. Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm carefully to avoid contamination.
- Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove most of the old fluid from the reservoir. Dispose of old fluid properly.
- Fill reservoir with fresh DOT 4 fluid up to the fill mark. Replace cap loosely to reduce contamination while working.
- Start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder. For many ATVs that's the rear caliper, then the front left, then front right — confirm on your bike by tracing the lines from each master cylinder.
- Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple and place the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid drawing air back in.
- Have an assistant slowly squeeze the brake lever or pedal several times and hold it compressed. Open the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn to allow fluid to flow until it slows, then close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever. Repeat until clear fluid free of bubbles flows.
- Alternatively, use a vacuum or pressure bleeder to draw fluid through each caliper following the same sequence — vacuum eliminates the need for an assistant and reduces the risk of air re-entry.
- Keep the reservoir topped off during the process. Never let the reservoir run dry or you will reintroduce air into the system.
- When each caliper shows clear fluid with no bubbles, tighten bleed nipple to spec (snug; don't round edges) and wipe away spilled fluid.
- After bleeding all calipers, pump the brake lever/pedal until firm. Check for leaks at all fittings and banjo bolts. Torque any hose/banjo fasteners per Textron specs if available in your service manual.
- Replace reservoir diaphragm & cap, clean any drips, and test ride slowly in a safe area to confirm firm braking before normal use.
Tips & troubleshooting
- Spongy lever after bleeding: recheck for master cylinder air, repeat bleeding starting at farthest caliper, and inspect flexible hoses for internal collapse which can trap air.
- Stubborn air: cycle the suspension/wheels while bleeding to move trapped air pockets, and re-bleed afterward.
- Leaking caliper or line: replace crush washers and copper or aluminum sealing washers at banjo fittings. Replace any leaking hose or caliper seal before re-bleeding.
- Contaminated pads: if brake fluid contacted pads or rotors, clean rotors with brake cleaner and consider replacing pads if soaked.
- Dispose of used brake fluid at a hazardous-waste facility. Do not pour down drains or on the ground.
Post-service checks
- Verify no leaks at bleeder nipples, banjo bolts, master cylinder, or hose fittings.
- Confirm brake lever/pedal feel is firm and consistent.
- Test brakes at low speed in a safe area before riding normally.
- Record service date and fluid type used for future maintenance.
Following this MotoSport-specific procedure will keep your 2018 Textron Alterra 700 stopping reliably. If you encounter unusual issues or suspect internal master cylinder or ABS faults, consult the Textron service manual or a qualified technician.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 TEXTRON ALT700 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 TEXTRON ALT700 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 TEXTRON ALT700 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 TEXTRON ALT700 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 TEXTRON ALT700 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.