How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Textron Alterra 700
Shop parts for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 ATV.
This proprietary MotoSport guide walks you through safely draining, flushing, and bleeding the brake systems on a 2019 Textron Alterra 700. Follow each step carefully, and perform this service in a clean, well-lit area. If you’re not comfortable performing brake work, have a professional tech handle it.
What you need
- DOT 4 brake fluid (use only DOT fluid specified by the owner’s manual)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits snugly over bleeder nipples
- Catch bottle or jar, rags, gloves, eye protection
- Wrench or box end to fit bleeder nipples (open-end may round the nipple)
- Brake bleeder syringe or pressure bleeder (recommended for best results)
- Torque wrench (for caliper and line fittings)
- Jack or ramps and stands to safely support the ATV
- Clean funnel or plastic syringe to add fluid to reservoir
Model-specific notes for the Alterra 700
- The Alterra 700 uses separate front and rear hydraulic circuits: the front brakes are controlled by the handlebar master cylinder; the rear brake uses its own master cylinder at the foot pedal. Bleed each circuit independently.
- The brake reservoir diaphragms and plastic reservoir are sensitive to contamination. Keep caps clean and avoid getting dirt inside the reservoir. Replace the diaphragm if cracked or warped.
- Use DOT 4 fluid unless the owner’s manual specifies otherwise. Do not use mineral-oil-based systems fluid; they are incompatible and will ruin seals.
- Check flexible brake hoses and caliper seals for age-related cracking or leakage while servicing. Replace any suspect components before flushing fluid.
- If your Alterra has aftermarket ABS or electronic aids, consult that system’s service info before pressurizing or disconnecting lines; most stock Alterra 700s do not have ABS.
Preparation
- Park on level ground, set parking brake, and remove the key. Securely support the ATV on stands so wheels can turn freely.
- Clean the reservoir cap area with a lint-free cloth before opening to prevent contamination.
- Remove the reservoir cap and diaphragm, then top the reservoir to the indicated level with fresh DOT 4 fluid.
- If using a pressure bleeder, attach it to the reservoir per the tool instructions. If using a syringe, keep a clean source of fluid nearby to top up frequently.
Bleeding order and general rule
Always bleed the circuit from the wheel farthest from that circuit’s master cylinder first, then proceed to the next farthest. For the Alterra 700:
- Front circuit (handlebar master): bleed the right front caliper first if it’s farthest from the master, then the left front. Confirm physical layout before starting; use farthest-to-nearest.
- Rear circuit (foot master): bleed the rear caliper(s) following farthest-to-nearest relative to the rear master cylinder.
Step-by-step bleed & replace
- Start with the front circuit. Verify reservoir level, then attach clear tubing to the bleeder nipple on the farthest caliper and submerge the other end in a small catch bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to avoid sucking air back in.
- If using a pressure bleeder, pressurize the reservoir to the recommended pressure for your tool (low pressure, typically 5-10 psi). If using manual pump or syringe, be ready to push fluid and hold steady pressure at the lever or pedal.
- Crack the bleeder nipple about a 1/4 turn, then operate the master cylinder (squeeze lever for front, press pedal for rear) steadily until you see a continuous stream of clear fresh fluid without bubbles flowing into the tubing. If using pressure bleeder, open bleeder and allow fluid to flow until clear.
- While bleeding, keep topping the reservoir to prevent it from running dry. Running dry reintroduces air and requires restarting the procedure.
- Once clear fluid with no air bubbles is flowing, tighten the bleeder nipple to spec (finger-tight plus a small wrench turn; typical practice is 7-12 ft-lb depending on nipple design). Wipe the area clean.
- Repeat the process for the next caliper in the front circuit, then for the rear circuit using the same farthest-to-nearest logic.
- After all calipers are bled, pump the front lever and rear pedal separately to confirm firm, consistent feel and no sponginess. If spongy, repeat bleeding focusing on the circuit with the soft feel.
- Clean the reservoir area, reinstall diaphragm & cap, and verify reservoir level is at the proper mark. Dispose of used fluid per local regulations.
- Lower the ATV, test brakes at low speed in a safe area to confirm proper operation before normal riding.
Torque & hardware notes
- Tighten bleeder nipples just enough to stop the leak after bleeding – do not over-torque. If you must remove calipers or lines, use a torque wrench for caliper mounting bolts per repair spec; consult the service manual for exact values or have MotoSport parts & techs advise on replacement hardware.
- Replace crushed copper washers or sealing rings on hydraulic fittings if disturbed.
Maintenance tips & common issues
- Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time; replace fluid every 1-2 years or sooner if you ride in wet or high-humidity environments.
- If you find foamy fluid or frequent soft pedal issues after bleeding, inspect the reservoir cap vent, master cylinder seal, and hoses for internal deterioration or contamination.
- Keep spare bleeder screws on hand; rounded or corroded nipples are common on older machines and will ruin a session if they fail.
- Aftermarket braided lines can improve pedal feel but confirm compatibility with the Alterra 700 calipers and master cylinders before fitting.
Troubleshooting
- Still soft after bleeding: recheck for a leak, check reservoir level, and repeat bleeding. Air can hide in caliper pistons; a caliper bench-bleed or piston extension may be needed.
- Brake dragging after bleed: ensure caliper pistons retracted properly and that hose fittings are not over-torqued or collapsed. Check for proper caliper mounting and rotor clearance.
- Contaminated fluid or discolored residue: perform a full system flush and inspect master cylinder & caliper seals for damage.
Perform routine checks after your first ride post-service and re-torque fasteners if needed. Proper bleeding and fresh fluid restore braking performance and safety on your Alterra 700.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 ATV.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 ATV.
Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 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.