How to Bleed and Replace Brake Fluid on a 2020 Yamaha Grizzly 700Fi 4X4 EPS XT-R IRS
Shop parts for a 2020 YAMAHA GRIZZLY70E_XTR ATV.
Overview & safety
This procedure covers both the front brake lever system and the rear brake pedal system on the 2020 Yamaha Grizzly 700Fi 4X4 EPS XT-R IRS. Use only DOT 4 brake fluid; do not mix with DOT 5 (silicone). Work in a wellventilated area, wear gloves and eye protection, and keep brake fluid off painted surfaces — it will damage finishes. Properly dispose of old fluid per local regulations.
Tools & materials
- DOT 4 brake fluid (sealed container)
- Clear plastic tubing that fits over bleed nipples
- Brake fluid catch bottle or jar
- Wrench for bleed nipples (8mm or appropriate)
- Screwdriver or Phillips for master cylinder caps
- Turkey baster or syringe to remove old fluid from reservoirs
- Clean shop rags and isopropyl alcohol
- Optional: vacuum or pressure bleeder
Model notes specific to the Grizzly 700Fi XTR IRS
- There are two separate hydraulic brake systems: front (handle lever) and rear (foot pedal). Bleed them separately.
- The master cylinder reservoirs are plastic and mounted openly — keep them clean and cap them quickly to avoid contamination and moisture absorption by DOT 4 fluid.
- Caliper bleed nipples are accessible but small — use correct wrench to avoid rounding. Inspect hoses and banjo fittings for leaks while working.
- This machine does not have ABS, so no special ABS cycling is required.
- Recommended service interval for fluid replacement is roughly every 1-2 years or sooner if contaminated or discolored.
Preparation
- Park ATV on a level surface and secure so it cannot roll. Use a block under wheels if needed.
- Clean reservoir caps and surrounding area with isopropyl alcohol.
- Remove master cylinder reservoir caps and diaphragms carefully. Avoid letting dirt fall in.
- Siphon out as much old fluid from the reservoirs as possible with a syringe or turkey baster.
- Top reservoirs with fresh DOT 4 fluid to just below the fill line to avoid introducing air during the bleed.
Bleeding order
Bleed the system starting from the caliper furthest from the master cylinder and proceed to the closest. For the Grizzly 700Fi:
- Front system: typically bleed the right front caliper first, then the left front.
- Rear system: bleed the rear caliper (it's its own circuit; treat separately).
Manual (pump) bleed method
- Attach clear tubing to the caliper bleed nipple and place the other end submerged in a small catch bottle partly filled with fresh fluid to prevent air being drawn back in.
- Have an assistant slowly squeeze the brake lever or pedal while you open the bleed nipple about a quarter turn. Allow fluid and air to flow into the tubing. Close the nipple before the assistant releases the lever/pedal to avoid sucking air back in.
- Repeat pump/open/close cycles until no air bubbles appear in the tubing and fluid runs clear. Keep the reservoir topped up frequently to prevent it from running dry.
- Once clear, tighten the bleed nipple to manufacturer snugness (do not overtorque), wipe any spilled fluid, and replace the dust cap.
- Move to the next caliper in the bleed order and repeat.
Vacuum or pressure bleed method (recommended for speed & reliability)
- Attach vacuum pump hose to the bleed nipple and a catch bottle. Pump until a steady flow of clear fluid with no bubbles appears.
- Keep reservoir topped during the process. Close the bleed nipple while vacuum is applied, then remove the pump.
- Repeat for each caliper in order.
Reservoir flush & final fill
- After all calipers are bled, remove final residual old fluid from reservoirs and refill with fresh DOT 4 to the correct level.
- Operate lever/pedal several times to confirm a firm feel. If spongy, repeat bleeding until firmness is achieved.
- Clean all fittings, tighten caps, and ensure dust boots and caps are installed on bleed nipples.
Inspection & postservice checks
- Check for leaks at calipers, banjo bolts, and master cylinder. Retorque fittings if necessary to specification.
- Test brakes at low speed in a safe area to confirm proper operation before returning to normal riding.
- Record service date and mileage in your maintenance log. Replace fluid again in 1-2 years or per use severity.
Common issues & troubleshooting
- Persistent spongy lever/pedal: likely trapped air — repeat bleed and ensure reservoir never ran dry during the process.
- Contaminated or dark fluid: perform a full flush; never top off with old fluid.
- Rounded bleed nipple: replace nipple or caliper if damaged. Use correct wrench size and a steady hand to avoid rounding.
Disposal
Collect used brake fluid in a sealed container and dispose of it at an appropriate hazardous waste facility. Do not pour onto ground or into drains.
Perform routine inspections of hoses, fittings, and pads at each brake service to keep your Grizzly 700Fi safe and reliable.
Related Shopping Categories
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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.