Maintaining Your ATV

ATVs are designed to tackle any terrain or weather, but they still need regular maintenance to extend their lifespan. We want to keep you and your ATV on the trails or in the mud for as long as possible. Here are some tips for maintaining your ATV:

• Tires: Your ATV's tires are the first line of defense against rough terrain and accidents. Before every ride, inspect the tread and sidewalls for major damage. Check that the tread level and air pressure match the manufacturer's recommendations in the owner's manual, and ensure that the tread is wearing evenly on all tires. If it's not, there may be an alignment issue.
• Battery: Get your battery tested during every regular maintenance check to ensure that the electrolyte levels are still in good shape. If your ATV is going to sit around for a few weeks or longer, remove the battery and hook it up to a trickle charger to avoid having it die entirely. This is especially important for long-term storage in cold weather. Also, regularly check the terminals for signs of corrosion. If you find any, remove the battery and clean the terminals carefully.
• Oil: Your engine oil keeps your engine lubricated and prevents metal parts from grinding against each other, reducing wear and tear and the risk of overheating. Check oil levels before every ride and top it off when needed to avoid damaging your engine. Simply remove the dipstick, wipe it off with a rag, dip it back in, and see how high the oil goes.
• You should also watch out for oil that has gone bad. Good oil should be a tan-ish color and relatively clear. If it's thicker than normal or has dark specs in it, it may be stale or contaminated. Metal shavings can also indicate grinding and require a service check.
• Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are responsible for starting the internal combustion reaction in your engine. If they're weak or broken, you'll have a lot of trouble starting your engine. Check on them by removing body panels, finding the plugs, and removing the ignition cables. Check the metal gaps to make sure they're clean and dry and that the ceramic housing isn't broken.

So there you have it! Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your ATV running smoothly and for extending its lifespan. Keep an eye on your tires, battery, oil, and spark plugs to ensure they're in good shape before each ride. By following these tips, you can make sure that you and your trusty ATV are ready to tackle any terrain or weather condition that comes your way. So get out there and hit the trails, and don't forget to take care of your ATV along the way!