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

Shop parts for a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700 ATV.

This MotoSport procedural guide walks you through flushing and bleeding the hydraulic brakes on a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700. Follow these steps to restore firm pedal feel, remove air, and renew contaminated fluid. Read each section fully before starting and work methodically – safety first.

What you need

  • Correct brake fluid as specified by Textron (consult your owner’s manual; use the manufacturer-recommended DOT rating – do not mix different DOT fluids)
  • Clear vinyl tubing to fit bleed nipples
  • Brake fluid catch bottle or jar with a sealed lid
  • Turkey baster or fluid-siphon pump
  • Bleed wrench sized to the caliper nipple
  • Torque wrench for caliper hardware if you remove components
  • Clean rags, brake cleaner, gloves & safety glasses
  • Jack or ramps and wheel chocks to secure the machine (if required)
  • Optional: handheld vacuum bleeder or pressure bleeder for a faster, cleaner job

Model notes for the 2019 Alterra TRV 700 owners

  • The TRV 700 uses a hydraulic brake system that is shared between front and rear circuits; always follow the far-to-near bleeding order relative to the master cylinder.
  • The brake fluid reservoir is accessible but small – keep caps and diaphragms clean to avoid contamination.
  • Textron recommends using the specified DOT fluid in the manual. If you don’t have the manual on hand, get the correct fluid from MotoSport parts for your exact MMY to avoid performance or seal-compatibility issues.
  • Inspect calipers, lines, and hoses for cracking or leaks while you work; the TRV 700 runs on tight trail conditions – replace any aged rubber lines immediately.
  • ABS is not typical on this utility ATV platform; braking feel will be mechanical and should be checked after bleeding before riding.

Preparation

  • Park on level ground, chock wheels, and remove the key. Ensure the ATV is cool & stable.
  • Clean around the brake reservoir cap to prevent dirt entry. Remove cap and diaphragm carefully.
  • Top the reservoir to the specified level with fresh fluid so air does not get sucked back in during bleeding.
  • Identify bleed nipples on each caliper & keep a clean rag under each to catch drips.

Bleeding strategy & order

Bleed the brake circuit starting with the caliper furthest from the master cylinder and finishing at the closest. If the TRV 700 uses separate front and rear circuits, complete one circuit fully before moving to the other. Typical sequence:

  • Furthest caliper (often a rear wheel)
  • Next furthest caliper
  • Finish with the caliper closest to the master cylinder

Step-by-step manual (two-person) method

  1. Have an assistant sit on the ATV or hold the brake lever/pedal pressure to simulate normal operating pressure when requested.
  2. Attach clear tubing to the bleed nipple and submerge the other end in a bottle partially filled with fresh fluid to prevent air return.
  3. Open the bleed nipple about a quarter turn using the bleed wrench.
  4. Assistant slowly depresses the brake lever/pedal several times and then holds it down.
  5. With the lever held, you open the nipple to let fluid and air escape, then close the nipple before the assistant releases pressure. Repeat until the expelled fluid runs clear and bubble-free.
  6. Top up the master reservoir frequently so it never runs below the minimum level.
  7. Repeat for each caliper in the correct order.
  8. After finishing a circuit, tighten all nipples to manufacturer torque or snug them firmly, wipe any spilled fluid, and reinstall reservoir diaphragm and cap.

One-person methods

  • Vacuum pump: Connect the vacuum pump to the bleed nipple, pull fluid through while working from furthest to nearest. Keep the reservoir topped up.
  • Pressure bleeder: Pressurize the master cylinder reservoir with a pressure bleeder and open bleed screws sequentially for a faster, single-operator job.
  • Pump-and-hold with a one-way valve hose: Use a one-way valve on the bleed hose so you can pump and release without sucking air back in.

Flushing the reservoir

If you’re doing a full fluid replacement, remove as much old fluid from the reservoir with a turkey baster before beginning. During bleeding, continue adding fresh fluid until the fluid exiting the calipers is clear and matches the new fluid color.

Inspection & final checks

  • Check master cylinder diaphragm and cap for cracks; replace if degraded.
  • Inspect brake hoses, banjo bolts, and caliper seals for leaks. Replace any parts showing swelling, cracking, or seepage.
  • Once bled, pump the brake lever/pedal until it firms up. If spongy feel remains, re-bleed the affected circuit.
  • Test brakes at low speed in a safe area before returning to regular trail or work use.

Common problems & troubleshooting

  • Persistent sponginess: usually air still in the system – repeat bleeding, paying attention to tricky areas like flexible hose-to-caliper junctions.
  • Fluid contamination or dark fluid: flush fully rather than topping off.
  • Leaking bleed nipple: replace or fit new copper crush washers/banjo hardware and torque correctly.
  • Soft lever after bleed: check master cylinder internal seals and pedal return springs; on older TRV 700s, aging master seals may require overhaul.

Disposal & safety notes

  • Brake fluid is hazardous. Collect and dispose of used fluid per local regulations; do not pour onto ground or into drains.
  • Avoid getting brake fluid on painted surfaces – it will damage paint. Rinse spills immediately with water & clean thoroughly.
  • Wear gloves and eye protection at all times when handling fluids.

Parts & service tips from MotoSport

  • Use genuine-quality replacement hoses, bleeder screws, and reservoir caps purpose-built for the Textron Alterra TRV 700 to ensure correct fit and longevity.
  • If you find worn caliper pistons or badly corroded hardware while bleeding, replace affected components sooner rather than later – proper braking is critical on utility machines.
  • Keep a maintenance log for fluid changes – regular replacement preserves braking performance and protects internal seals.

Follow these steps and checks to safely and effectively bleed and replace the brake fluid on your 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700. When you need parts specific to this MMY, trust MotoSport for correct-fit components and accessories to keep your machine stopping strong.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 700 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Textron Alterra TRV 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.