How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2019 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS
Shop parts for a 2019 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
This MotoSport guide walks you through a professional, safe procedure to replace and bleed the brake fluid on a 2019 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS. Follow each step carefully. If you’re unsure about any task, consult a certified technician or your owner’s manual.
What you need
- Fresh brake fluid (check your Yamaha owner’s manual for the correct DOT rating; Yamaha generally specifies DOT 4 for many models – confirm for your MMY)
- Brake bleeder kit (hand pump, vacuum bleeder, or pressure bleeder)
- Clear plastic tubing to fit bleed nipples
- Catch container for old fluid
- Clean syringe or fluid transfer pump
- Brake cleaner, rags, and nitrile gloves
- Wrenches to fit bleed nipples (usually 8mm or 10mm) and for wheel removal
- Torque wrench (for wheel reinstall and any fasteners you remove)
- Jack or ramps and wheel chocks
Safety first
- Work on a level surface with the engine off and key removed.
- Wear eye protection and gloves. Brake fluid is corrosive to paint & plastic.
- Do not let used fluid contact painted surfaces; wash immediately with water.
- Keep the master cylinder reservoir clean & capped when not actively adding fluid to prevent contamination.
- Dispose of used fluid according to local regulations.
Notes specific to the 2019 Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS
- The Kodiak 700 uses hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. The Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) gives tighter clearances around the rear caliper and bleeder screw, so you may need to remove the rear wheel or skid plate to access the rear bleeder comfortably.
- This model commonly uses a single master cylinder feeding front and rear circuits. Bleed the furthest caliper from the master cylinder first, working toward the closest.
- There is no factory ABS system on the standard Kodiak 700, so bleeding is straightforward without electronic cycling procedures.
- Inspect caliper pistons, pads, and hoses for damage while you’re at each wheel. Replace any visibly cracked hose or deeply scored rotor.
Preparation
- Park bike on level ground, engage parking brake or place in gear, and chock wheels.
- Remove any plastic panels, skid plate, or wheel(s) necessary to access bleeder screws & calipers (especially the rear due to IRS clearance).
- Clean around the master cylinder reservoir cap and the bleed nipples to avoid contamination.
- Remove the master cylinder cap and diaphragm; top level should be clean and visible.
- Siphon out old fluid from the reservoir with a clean syringe until fluid level is low but the reservoir still contains a small amount so air cannot suck in when lines are opened.
Bleeding sequence & method
General rule: start at the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and progress to the nearest. For the Kodiak 700 typical sequence is: rear caliper first, then right front, then left front — confirm which is farthest on your machine and use that order.
- Refill the master reservoir with fresh brake fluid to the fill line.
- Attach a clear tube to the bleeder screw and submerge the other end in a container partially filled with clean fluid to prevent air re-entry.
- If using a manual two-person pump method: one person slowly squeezes the brake lever/pedal while the other opens the bleeder screw about 1/4 turn to let fluid & air out, then closes the screw before lever/pedal is released. Repeat until clear, bubble-free fluid flows and lever feel firms up.
- If using a vacuum or pressure bleeder: follow the tool manufacturer’s instructions. Keep the master reservoir topped up throughout to avoid sucking air into the system.
- Work one caliper at a time. After each caliper is bled, tighten the bleeder screw to specified snugness (do not overtighten) and wipe any spilled fluid.
- After all calipers are bled, cycle the brake lever/pedal several times to check firmness. If spongy, repeat bleeding starting from the farthest caliper again until lever/pedal is firm and free of compressibility.
Finishing steps
- Top off the master reservoir to the proper level, reinstall the diaphragm and cap securely.
- Clean any spilled fluid, reinstall wheels/panels, torque fasteners to Yamaha specs in the owner’s manual.
- Carefully test brakes at low speed in a safe area to confirm proper operation before normal riding.
- Record the date and mileage/hours of the fluid change for maintenance tracking.
Troubleshooting & tips
- If lever remains soft after repeated bleeding, inspect hoses for internal collapse and calipers for seized pistons. Replace any suspect hoses or caliper rebuild as needed.
- A pressure bleeder gives the cleanest, fastest result and reduces contamination risk. Use a quality tool if you perform brake service regularly.
- Do not mix DOT fluid types. Always match the exact DOT rating specified for your machine.
- Because the Kodiak 700’s IRS can restrict rear access, plan for extra time and light-handed disassembly to avoid stripping fasteners in tight areas.
Performing brake fluid replacement and bleeding on your Kodiak 700 keeps stopping performance safe and predictable. If any step feels beyond your tools or comfort level, have MotoSport’s recommended service professionals or a local Yamaha dealer perform the job.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Fluid for a 2019 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
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Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Yamaha Kodiak 700 4X4 IRS ATV.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 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.
