While not all of us may race, I'm pretty certain every one of us rides, so properly prepped machinery is just as important for all of us. I'm sure some of this will sound too basic for the mechanically inclined, but not all ATV riders are blessed with those inclinations. Let's face it, we all have that riding buddy who has to muster everything in his mechanical arsenal just to put gas in his/her quad; this article is kind of for them.
Whether you're flying through the air at your local MX track, pitching it sideways in fourth gear at a TT, dodging trees at a cross-country event or taking a leisurely stroll down a fire road having a properly prepped quad is invaluable. Use this quick list and perform your checks before every ride.
Skill Well
Elementary [1/5]
Tools Required
Filter cleaner and oil, low-pressure air gauge, open-end wrench set, basic 3/8-inch socket set with ratchet, Phillips head screwdriver
Summary
Perform routine basic maintenance before every ride or race in order to keep your machine running and handling properly.
1. Clean your air filter....
1. Clean your air filter. Locate your airbox (usually under your seat), and remove the lid. If you've never done this, your filter will probably be the filthy object clamped inside of the airbox. Remove the filter and replace the lid to keep out debris. Spray the filter with filter cleaner or a Simple Green-type product and let it soak for five minutes; hose the filter from the inside out until it's free of oil and gunk; let dry.
2. Oil your air filter. Once...
2. Oil your air filter. Once the filter is completely dry, coat it with filter oil. Please note that foam filters and K&N-style filters use different types of oil. Paper filters should be replaced entirely.
3. Check your tire pressure....
3. Check your tire pressure. This is pretty self-explanatory. Remove your valve stem cap, check the tire pressure, add or remove air according to the tire's specs. Adjust all four tires. If you decide not to, you risk an ill-handling quad or even flats.
4. Check your lug nuts. Tighten...
4. Check your lug nuts. Tighten all of the lug nuts; they don't have to be gorilla tight, just regular human tightness will do. This step is important, as you don't want those wheels working their way loose while out riding.
5. Check your oil level, if...
5. Check your oil level, if you race, and change your oil and filter. Each machine varies in the steps necessary to perform an oil level check; where they don't vary is that the steps necessary are always listed in your owner's manual. Our best advice would be to follow those instructions. If you race your machine, you should change the oil and filter after every race.
6. Check your coolant. This...
6. Check your coolant. This one is simple if your machine is liquid-cooled; merely open the top of the radiator and fill 'er up. We recommend consistency in your coolant type or brand. Many aftermarket coolants are incompatible.
7. Finger-check all visible...
7. Finger-check all visible bolts. You would be surprised at the number of things that rattle loose on your ATV. The best way to avoid a missing-bolt-related incident is to perform a basic finger tightness test; if they move, tighten them.
8. Check your fuel and fuel...
8. Check your fuel and fuel filter. Take the time to check the fuel. I won't insult your intelligence with steps on this one.
9. Lube your chain. A can...
9. Lube your chain. A can of chain lube will go a long way in extending a chain's life. Simply coat the entire chain after every wash or before every ride. WD-40 or a good penetrating lube such as Maxima's MPPL will do.
10. Adjust your controls (i.e.,...
10. Adjust your controls (i.e., levers, handlebar and brake pedal). Sit on your machine and make sure each and every control is easily reachable when in your riding position. Most perches and controls are held in place by either two Phillips head screws or 8mm bolts. Loosen, adjust and retighten.