There are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors, but one of the most popular is via an all-terrain vehicle or ATV. These nifty machines can help you explore places you never thought possible and are a blast to ride. But as with anything, there’s a right and wrong way to take care of your ATV. Follow these tips to keep your ATV in the best condition possible.
1. Check and Change the Oil
It’s essential to regularly check and change the oil in your ATV, as this will help to keep the engine in good condition. Depending on how often you ride, you should change the oil every few months. When changing the oil, be sure to use the type of oil recommended by the manufacturer. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to err on caution and use higher quality oil than recommended.
2. Follow the Break-in Procedure
When you first get your ATV, following the break-in procedure outlined in the owner’s manual is important. This usually involves not riding too hard or fast during the first few hours or miles. Breaking in your ATV properly will help to extend its life and avoid any costly repairs to any of your ATV parts down the road. After you’ve followed the break-in procedure, you can start riding at higher speeds and enjoying your machine to the fullest. Following the break-in procedure is also a good opportunity to get to know your ATV and how it handles.
3. Routinely Wash
Just as you would wash your car or truck, it’s essential to wash your ATV regularly. This will help remove any dirt, grime, or salt that could damage the paint or other parts of the machine. It’s best to wash your ATV after every ride or at least every few rides. If you live in an area with a lot of rain, you may need to wash it more often. Washing also allows you to check for any damage or wear and tear. It would be best to avoid pressure washing, as this can force water into areas where it doesn’t belong. When washing, be sure to pay special attention to the undercarriage of your ATV, as this is where mud and dirt can build up and cause problems.
4. Keep a Clean Air Filter
An important part of routine maintenance for your ATV is keeping a clean air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your ATV to run less efficiently. It can also lead to engine damage. A clean air filter is essential for proper ATV operation. Over time, the air filter will become clogged with dirt and debris, which can reduce engine power and cause premature wear. To clean the air filter, remove it from the ATV and gently tap it on a hard surface to remove any loose dirt. Then, use a brush or compressed air to remove any stubborn dirt.
5. Check the Belt
Another vital part of routine maintenance is checking the belt. The belt helps to drive the wheels, and it can become loose or damaged over time. A damaged belt can cause your ATV to overheat or even catch fire. To check the belt, simply remove it from the ATV and inspect it for any damage.
6. Treat Your Gas
It’s also important to treat your gas with a fuel stabilizer. This will help to keep the gas fresh and prevent any corrosion. A fuel stabilizer is especially important if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or if you’re planning to store your ATV for an extended period. To treat your gas, add the fuel stabilizer to the tank and fill it up with gas. If you don’t use a fuel stabilizer, you may find that your ATV won’t start as easily or doesn’t run as well.
ATVs are a lot of fun, but they also require a lot of maintenance. By following the tips outlined above, you can help extend your ATV’s life and avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your ATV running properly.
