How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Textron Alterra 570
Shop parts for a 2019 Textron Alterra 570 ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through a full brake fluid flush and bleed on your 2019 Textron Alterra 570. Follow these steps carefully & work cleanly to protect paint, rubber components, and ABS or sensor hardware. This procedure assumes the stock hydraulic disc brake system with a single master cylinder and separate front/rear calipers.
Safety & prep
- Work on a level surface, engine off, key removed, and parking brake engaged (if applicable).
- Wear nitrile gloves, eye protection, and use brake-fluid-safe containers and rags. Brake fluid damages paint & plastics.
- Use the correct DOT-spec brake fluid for your Alterra &mdash check the owner's manual; DOT 4 is commonly used but confirm before starting.
- Have a clean funnel, clear hose for bleed nipples, a catch bottle, rags, jack/stands (if needed), box wrench or flare-nut wrench set, turkey baster or siphon, and optionally a vacuum/pressure bleeder.
What to know about the 2019 Textron Alterra 570 brakes
- Factory setup uses a single master cylinder with front and rear calipers; bleed order is crucial to avoid trapped air.
- Brake reservoir is located on the handlebars/near master cylinder &mdash keep it topped up during the procedure to prevent drawing air into the system.
- Bleed nipples are on each caliper; usually the rear caliper is closest to the master and the far front caliper is farthest. Inspect nipples for corrosion or rounded heads before starting.
- ABS is not standard on most Alterra 570s, but if your model has any electronic brake components, consult the dealer/service manual for module-specific bleed steps.
Preparation steps
- Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm; clean around the cap to keep contaminants out. Use plastic covers or rags to protect surrounding paint.
- If replacing fluid entirely, use a turkey baster or siphon to remove old fluid from the reservoir until low but not bone-dry.
- Top reservoir with fresh brake fluid to the fill mark. Keep the cap off during bleeding but cover the opening loosely with a clean rag to prevent debris entry.
- Identify bleed sequence: farthest wheel from master cylinder first, then next farthest, finishing with the wheel closest to master. For the Alterra 570 this typically means: right front, left front, then rear (confirm by visual inspection of hose routing to determine distance from master cylinder).
Manual bleeding method (recommended if you don't have a vacuum or pressure bleeder)
- Have a helper sit on the machine to operate the brake lever/pedal or use a lever-press block to avoid repeated pumping that draws air back in.
- Attach clear hose to the bleed nipple you're working on; submerge the other end in a partially filled catch bottle to prevent airborne air entry.
- Loosen the bleed nipple about 1/4 turn with a proper wrench.
- Helper slowly squeezes the lever/pedal several times and holds it in the applied position. While held, open the bleed nipple slightly &mdash fluid and air will flow into the hose. Close the nipple before the helper releases the lever/pedal. Repeat until you see clear fluid with no air bubbles. Keep reservoir topped between cycles.
- Tighten the bleed nipple securely after each caliper is clear. Wipe the area dry and move to the next caliper following the bleed order (farthest to closest).
- After final caliper, pump the brake lever/pedal to build pressure. Confirm firm lever feel with no sponginess and check reservoir level. Top to the max line and replace the cap and diaphragm.
Using a vacuum or pressure bleeder
- Vacuum bleeder: attach hose to the bleed nipple and pull vacuum while a helper slowly operates the lever/pedal, or use a one-person method by actuating lever while vacuum draws fluid. Monitor reservoir level and refill as needed.
- Pressure bleeder: pressurize the reservoir to the recommended psi for DOT fluid (follow bleeder tool instructions). Open each bleed nipple in sequence until clear fluid flows, then close and move on. Pressure bleeding is faster and reduces helper error, but never over-pressurize the system.
Tips for best results
- Always keep the reservoir topped; even one sip of air will require re-bleeding.
- Use clean, unopened brake fluid. Once opened, store fluid in a sealed container away from moisture.
- Inspect rubber hoses & banjo fittings for leaks or soft spots while performing the job. Replace damaged hoses before finishing.
- If a brake caliper has a stuck piston, clean and service that caliper separately &mdash flushing fluid alone won't restore a seized piston.
- After bleeding, clean all spilled fluid with water and mild detergent; promptly rinse to protect paint and plastics.
Post-bleed checks
- Verify brake lever/pedal firmness at operating temperature by taking a cautious low-speed test ride in a safe area.
- Re-check bleed nipple tightness, reservoir level, and inspect for any leaks after the test ride.
- Dispose of old fluid responsibly per local regulations.
Model-specific maintenance notes for the Alterra 570 owner
- Brake lines and fittings on the 2019 Alterra are moderately exposed on trail use &mdash inspect them regularly for chafing or stone damage after off-road rides.
- If you run aftermarket tires or alter suspension geometry, re-check brake lever feel and routing; changes in wheel size or lift kits can affect leverage and hose routing.
- Textron recommends periodic brake fluid replacement on a schedule &mdash if you ride in wet or muddy conditions frequently, shorten the interval because water contamination lowers boiling point and accelerates corrosion.
- If you notice uneven pad wear or pulling under braking, check caliper slide pins and ensure pads are correctly seated &mdash uneven wear can indicate caliper or mounting issues rather than just fluid problems.
Following this MotoSport procedure will restore brake performance and help prevent moisture-related failures. If you encounter persistent sponginess after a careful bleed, inspect calipers, master cylinder, and hoses or consult a qualified technician.
Related Shopping Categories
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Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Textron Alterra 570 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.