How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 EPS

Shop parts for a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 EPS ATV.

This MotoSport guide gives step-by-step, model-specific instructions for bleeding and replacing the brake fluid on a 2019 Textron Alterra 700 EPS. Follow these procedures carefully to maintain braking performance and safety. If you are not comfortable with brake work, have a qualified technician do the job.

Notes specific to the 2019 Textron Alterra 700 EPS

  • The Alterra 700 EPS uses separate hydraulic circuits for the front (handlebar lever) and rear (foot pedal) brakes. Bleed and refill each circuit separately.
  • Reservoirs are small — keep them topped during the procedure to avoid introducing air. Use a clean rag to prevent dirt intrusion.
  • Brake calipers are conventional ATV disc units; the bleeder nipples are oriented so you can access them with a short wrench. Wheel removal may be necessary for easier access to front calipers.
  • Recommended fluid type: use DOT-rated brake fluid that meets Textron specifications (DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible). Use fresh, unopened fluid from a sealed container and avoid mixing different DOT types.
  • EPS electrical components are nearby; avoid spilling fluid on wiring or painted surfaces. Brake fluid can damage paint & plastics; wipe spills immediately and rinse with water if needed.

Tools & Supplies

  • Brake fluid (fresh, unopened bottle DOT 3/4 compatible)
  • Clear plastic tubing that fits over bleeder nipples
  • Catch container partially filled with a little used fluid to avoid drawing air back
  • Wrenches for bleeder nipples (commonly 8mm or 10mm)
  • Turkey baster or syringe (to remove fluid from reservoirs)
  • Brake cleaner and rags
  • Gloves and eye protection
  • Floor jack or ATV stand and wheel chocks
  • Assistant (helpful for lever/pedal pumping) or a vacuum/pressure bleeder

Preparation

  1. Park on level ground, chock wheels, and turn ignition off. Allow brakes to cool.
  2. Remove wheels if necessary for access. Place the ATV on a stable stand so wheels can rotate freely when bleeding.
  3. Clean the area around each master cylinder reservoir and reservoir cap. Remove the cap and diaphragm carefully to prevent contamination.
  4. Use a turkey baster to remove most of the old fluid from each reservoir to reduce contamination while you refill with fresh fluid.
  5. Top each reservoir with fresh brake fluid to the fill line. Keep caps loosely in place between steps to reduce contamination risk.

Bleeding Sequence

Always bleed the hydraulic circuit with the bleeder nipple farthest from the master cylinder first, then work toward the master cylinder. For the Alterra 700 EPS that typically means:

  • Front circuit: right front, left front (if two front calipers)
  • Rear circuit: rear caliper (single)

Manual Two-Person Bleed Method

  1. Fit clear tubing over the bleeder nipple and place the other end into the catch container partially filled with a little old fluid to prevent air return.
  2. Have your assistant slowly pump the brake lever (front) or press the brake pedal (rear) several times and then hold pressure.
  3. With lever/pedal held, open the bleeder nipple one-quarter to one-half turn to allow fluid and air to escape into the tubing. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal.
  4. Repeat: pump, hold, open, close until you see clear, bubble-free fluid in the tubing and the reservoir stays clean. After every few cycles, top the reservoir with fresh fluid to maintain level.
  5. When the line is clear, tighten the bleeder nipple to snug (do not over-torque), wipe clean, and move to the next caliper following the sequence above.

One-Person Vacuum or Pressure Bleeder Method

  1. Attach the vacuum or pressure bleeder per the tool maker’s instructions to the reservoir or bleeder nipple.
  2. Open bleeder nipple and run the system until fluid runs clear and bubble-free. Monitor reservoir level and top as needed.
  3. Close the bleeder nipple before removing the vacuum/pressure tool, then tighten and clean the area.

Final Steps & Inspection

  1. After bleeding each circuit, top the reservoir to the correct level and reinstall the diaphragm and cap securely.
  2. Spin wheels and operate brakes to ensure proper engagement; check pedal/lever firmness. If the lever or pedal is spongy, repeat bleeding until firm.
  3. Inspect bleeder nipples, hose connections, lines and calipers for leaks. Torque any loose fasteners to factory specs where available.
  4. Clean any spilled fluid from painted surfaces immediately. Dispose of old fluid properly in accordance with local regulations.
  5. Lower the ATV, remove stands/chocks, and perform a slow on-ground test ride in a safe area to verify braking performance before regular use.

Troubleshooting

  • Persistent sponginess: check for air in the system, leaking seals, or a failing master cylinder. Repeat bleeding or inspect components for wear.
  • Brake drag after bleeding: ensure bleeder nipples are fully closed and caliper pistons are retracting properly. Check caliper slides and pads.
  • Contaminated or dark fluid shortly after replacement: inspect for moisture ingress or caliper seal breakdown; consider caliper rebuild or replacement if contamination persists.

Perform brake fluid replacement every 1-2 years depending on use and storage conditions, or sooner for heavy, wet, or high-load use typical of trail or work applications. Keeping fresh fluid and properly bled brakes ensures reliable stopping power and prolongs component life on your Alterra 700 EPS.

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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.