How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6

Shop parts for a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6 ATV.

This MotoSport guide gives a step-by-step, shop-grade procedure for flushing and bleeding the brake system on a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6. Follow these directions carefully to keep braking performance sharp and safe. Read the whole procedure before starting and gather tools and supplies first.

What you need

  • DOT 4 brake fluid (use Polaris-specified fluid or equivalent; confirm spec in your owner's manual)
  • Clear plastic tubing to fit bleeder nipples
  • Small catch bottle with a one-way valve or bleed valve cap
  • Wrench set including correct size for caliper bleeder nipples
  • Turkey baster or fluid syringe
  • Clean rags, shop towels, gloves and eye protection
  • Brake cleaner and non-metallic brush
  • Torque wrench (for reassembly where required)
  • Optional: vacuum or pressure brake bleeder for single-operator convenience

Model notes – 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6

  • The Sportsman 570 6X6 uses hydraulic disc brakes with separate master cylinders for front and rear circuits. Expect a handlebar-mounted front master cylinder and a frame-mounted rear master near the brake pedal.
  • There is no factory ABS on this model; bleeding is straightforward full-hydraulic system work.
  • Polaris recommends DOT 4 fluid for best performance under load. Do not mix DOT types unless specifically allowed by the manual & always replace with clean, sealed fluid.
  • Bleeder nipple locations can be low on calipers; make sure wheels are supported safely on jack stands or the machine is on a lift rated for ATVs. Use wheel chocks and a stable platform for the 6X6 weight.

Preparation

  • Park on level ground; engage parking brake and place chocks under wheels. Disconnect battery negative terminal as a safety precaution if working near electrical components.
  • Clean the master cylinder reservoirs and surrounding area to prevent contamination when you open caps.
  • Remove cap and diaphragm from the master cylinder(s). Use a turkey baster to extract old fluid from the reservoir(s) to minimize spill & contamination.
  • Refill reservoir with fresh DOT 4 brake fluid to the MAX line; keep cap off but cover with a clean plastic wrap to limit contamination while you work.

Recommended bleeding sequence

Always start with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work toward the closest. For most Sportsman 570 6X6 setups:

  • Front master: bleed right front first (farthest), then left front.
  • Rear master: bleed the wheel farthest from the rear master first, then closer wheel(s). If the rear has a combined circuit, follow the same farthest-to-closest rule.

Manual two-person bleed procedure

  1. Have an assistant sit on the machine and repeatedly pump the brake lever/pedal several times and hold pressure. If assistant is not available, use a pressure bleeder or a one-way valve on the master cylinder and a clamp on the lever for a temporary hold.
  2. Attach clear tubing over bleeder nipple and submerge the other end in a catch bottle partially filled with clean brake fluid to prevent air re-entry.
  3. Loosen the bleeder nipple about a 1/4 turn. Fluid and air will flow into the tubing; when flow slows, tighten the nipple. Instruct assistant to release lever/pedal slowly after nipple is tightened.
  4. Repeat pump, hold, open, close cycles until no air bubbles appear in the tubing and the fluid runs clear. Monitor the master reservoir – top up frequently to avoid drawing air into the system.
  5. Work through all calipers in the prescribed sequence. Finish by topping the reservoir to the MAX line, reinstalling diaphragm & cap, and cleaning any spilled fluid immediately.

Single-operator options

  • Use a vacuum bleeder at the bleeder nipple or a pressure bleeder on the master cylinder reservoir. These speed the job and avoid needing an assistant.
  • Follow the manufacturer instructions for your vacuum/pressure tool; still follow farthest-to-closest sequence and keep reservoir topped off.

After bleeding

  • Check for spongy lever or pedal feel. If soft, repeat bleeding until lever/pedal is firm and consistent.
  • Inspect bleeder nipples and torque to manufacturer specs if you have them; if not, snug to stop leaks but avoid over-tightening.
  • Clean all components with brake cleaner. Remove any nearby painted-surface contamination immediately — brake fluid damages paint and plastics.
  • Test brake operation at low speed in a safe area before full use. Confirm no leaks and consistent pressure under repeated stops.
  • Dispose of old brake fluid according to local hazardous-waste rules; do not pour on ground or into drains.

Common pitfalls & tips

  • Never allow the master cylinder reservoir to run dry during bleeding – it will reintroduce air and extend the process.
  • Use fresh sealed DOT 4 fluid; once opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture. Replace fluid every few years or per service interval to prevent internal corrosion and boiling under load.
  • Protect painted plastics and finishes. Brake fluid is highly corrosive to paint and many plastics.
  • If you still have a soft pedal after thorough bleeding, inspect caliper pistons, hoses for internal collapse, and the master cylinder for internal seal wear; these may require component service or replacement.
  • Keep records of service – on a 6X6 used for heavy-duty tasks, brake fluid change intervals may need to be more frequent than for light use.

Final checklist

  • Reservoirs filled to correct level and capped
  • No visible leaks at bleeders, hoses, calipers or master cylinder
  • Brake lever/pedal firm and consistent
  • Test ride completed at low speed with progressive braking checks
  • Old fluid disposed of properly

When in doubt about master cylinder or caliper condition, or if you encounter persistent air or leaks, consider professional service. For replacement parts or upgrade components for your 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6, visit our parts page above to find OEM and performance options tailored to this MMY.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Fluid for a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6 ATV.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6 ATV.

Shop Brake Pads for a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6 ATV.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6 ATV.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2020 Polaris Sportsman 570 6X6 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.