How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS
Shop parts for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through safely flushing and bleeding the brake systems on the 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS. Procedures are written for the stock hydraulic circuits on this model — follow Yamaha service intervals and replace fluid with recommended DOT-grade brake fluid.
What you need
- Yamaha-approved DOT4 brake fluid (clean, unopened container)
- Clear bleed hose and small catch bottle
- Wrench for bleed nipples (usually 8 mm or 10 mm)
- Phillips/flat screwdrivers and socket set
- Turkey baster or fluid syringe
- Clean rags, nitrile gloves, safety glasses
- Brake cleaner, disposable container for old fluid
- Assistant to pump the brake lever/pedal (recommended)
Important model notes for the 2018 Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS
- The Kodiak 700 uses DOT4 brake fluid factory-recommended; do not mix with DOT3/5 silicone fluids.
- Front and rear brakes are separate hydraulic circuits with their own reservoirs. Bleed each circuit independently.
- IRS (independent rear suspension) does not change basic bleeding technique, but rear hose routing is longer and can trap air more easily – be thorough.
- There is no factory ABS system on this model, so no ABS-specific bleed procedure is required.
- Brake fluid will damage paint and plastics — protect frame and bodywork when working.
Overview of the procedure
Do one circuit at a time: front circuit (both front calipers) then rear circuit. For each circuit identify the master cylinder reservoir, then bleed from the caliper furthest from that reservoir and work toward the nearest caliper or master cylinder. Replace master cylinder fluid by suctioning old fluid from reservoir and topping with fresh fluid before and during bleeding until clear fluid with no air bubbles flows.
Step-by-step: replace fluid and bleed
- Park the ATV on level ground, engage parking brake, and disconnect the battery negative if you want extra safety. Wear eye protection and gloves.
- Clean each master cylinder reservoir cap and area to keep contaminants out. Remove cap and diaphragm slowly to relieve pressure.
- Use a turkey baster or syringe to remove as much old fluid from the reservoir as possible. Dispose of old fluid properly; do not reuse.
- Fill the reservoir with fresh DOT4 fluid. Do not overfill; leave slight freeboard so fluid won't overflow when the lever/pedal is actuated.
- Locate bleed nipples on calipers. Fit a clear bleed hose onto the nipple and route it into the catch bottle partially filled with clean fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- Have an assistant slowly pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold pressure. With pressure applied, open the bleed nipple briefly to let fluid and air escape, then close it before the assistant releases pressure. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid appears. Always close the nipple before the lever/pedal is released to avoid sucking air back in.
- Follow the sequence: start with the caliper farthest from the reservoir, then the next-farthest, and finish with the caliper nearest the reservoir/master cylinder. For front circuit this commonly means right then left or vice versa depending on reservoir mounting – visually determine which caliper is farthest from the hose routing. For the rear circuit bleed the caliper(s) starting with the furthest point from the rear reservoir and move inward.
- Top up the reservoir frequently during bleeding to prevent running dry; contaminated air will enter the system if reservoir levels drop too low.
- When no air bubbles are visible and lever/pedal feel is firm, tighten the bleed nipple to manufacturer standard snugness (hand-tight plus small turn with wrench). Wipe down and reinstall the reservoir diaphragm and cap securely.
- Repeat the entire bleed process for the other hydraulic circuit(s) until all brakes have firm, consistent feel.
- Test operation at low speed in a safe area. Check for leaks at calipers, hoses, and fittings. Re-torque caliper bolts and banjo fittings to service values if removed.
- Clean any spilled fluid from painted surfaces and plastic immediately with brake cleaner. Record fluid change date & mileage in maintenance log.
Torque and fittings caution
Do not overtighten bleed nipples or banjo bolts. If you remove banjo bolts or calipers, follow Yamaha torque specs from the service manual. If you don't have the manual, torque banjo bolts to a conservative value then recheck for leaks under pressure.
Troubleshooting
- Spongy lever after bleeding: repeat bleeding sequence, ensuring reservoir never runs dry and bleed furthest-to-nearest order is followed.
- Persistent air: consider using a vacuum bleed tool, or bench-bleed the master cylinder if removable.
- Leaking bleed nipple or caliper: replace seals or the caliper if damaged.
Maintenance intervals and best practices
- Flush and replace brake fluid every 2 years or sooner if contaminated, stored wet, or after water exposure. DOT4 is hygroscopic; performance declines with moisture absorption.
- Inspect pads, rotors, hoses, and reservoir condition during every fluid change. Replace worn pads and damaged hoses promptly.
- Keep a small journal in the ATV's tool kit noting fluid type and change date for future reference.
Performing a complete fluid replacement and bleeding routine restores braking performance and prolongs component life. If you encounter persistent problems, consult a qualified technician or refer to the Yamaha service manual for model-specific torque values and diagrams.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 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.
