If you're like most people, you want your ATV to last as long as possible. Unfortunately, many riders don't take the necessary precautions to protect their vehicle from wear and tear. In this blog post, we will discuss five ways that you can easily extend the life of your ATV. Follow these tips and you'll be able to ride your ATV for years to come!
Clean Your ATV!
One important reason to clean your ATV after heavy use is to prevent rust and corrosion. When dirt and mud accumulate on the metal portions of your ATV, they can hold moisture against the metal and cause it to rust. In addition, when mud dries on the engine, it can harden and form a crust that can interfere with engine performance. Regular cleaning will help to prevent these problems and keep your ATV running smoothly.
Another reason to clean your ATV is to protect the vulnerable parts of the machine from premature wear. When dirt and debris build up on suspension components, for example, they can cause those parts to wear out more quickly. Likewise, the accumulation of mud and grit in the drivetrain can cause excessive wear on gears and bearings. By keeping your ATV clean, you can help extend its lifespan and avoid expensive repairs down the road.
So there are a few good reasons to make sure you clean your ATV after every heavy use. A little bit of time spent cleaning now can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Cover Your ATV When Not In Use!
When you aren't using your ATV, it is important to cover it to protect it from the elements. If it is going to sit for long periods of time, this is even more important. UV rays from the sun can cause the plastic and rubber parts of your ATV to degrade, while rain and snow can rust metal parts. A tarp or an ATV-specific cover will keep your vehicle in good condition, so that it will be ready to ride when you are. In addition, a cover can also help to keep your ATV clean, which will make it easier to maintain and extend its life. So if you want to keep your ATV in good condition, be sure to cover it when you're not using it.
Check Your Batteries!
Checking the batteries on your ATV is an important part of regular maintenance. Batteries can become damaged from overcharging, sulfation, or simply from sitting too long without being used. Damaged batteries can cause starting and charging problems, and can eventually lead to complete failure. By checking the batteries regularly, you can identify any potential problems early on and take steps to avoid further damage. Here are a few things to look for when checking your ATV's batteries:
- Check the level of electrolyte in each cell. The electrolyte should be level with the bottom of the filler neck. If it is below this level, add distilled water until it reaches the proper level.
- Check the terminal connections to make sure they are clean and free of corrosion. Corroded terminals can cause starting and charging problems.
- Check the battery case for cracks or leaks. If you find any damage, replace the battery immediately.
By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your ATV's batteries in good condition and avoid potential starting and charging problems down the road.
Clean Your Air Filter!
Checking and cleaning your ATV's air filter is an important part of regular maintenance. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your engine to run lean and potentially leading to engine damage. In addition, a dirty air filter can cause your ATV to lose power and run hot. Checking your air filter regularly will help to ensure that your ATV is running at peak performance. To clean your air filter, simply remove it from the housing and gently tap it to remove any dirt or debris. If the filter is extremely dirty, you may need to use a brush or compressed air to remove all the buildup. Once the filter is clean, reinsert it into the housing and make sure that it is seated properly. By taking a few minutes to check and clean your air filter, you can keep your ATV running like new for years to come.
Check and Change Your ATV's Oil!
Checking and changing your ATV's oil is important for several reasons. First, fresh oil helps to lubricate the engine and keep moving parts working smoothly. Old, dirty oil can cause increased wear and tear on engine parts, leading to premature deterioration. Second, fresh oil helps to keep the engine clean by trapping contaminants and preventing them from circulating through the system. Over time, contaminants can build up and cause problems such as clogged oil filters or reduced efficiency. Finally, regularly changing your oil can help to extend the life of your ATV by reducing the overall stress on the engine. By checking and changing your ATV's oil, you can help to keep it running strong for years to come.
Okay, so that's 5 simple maintenance tips to extend your ATV's life. Below is a bonus 6th tip to keep your ATV running as smoothly as possible.
Check and Tighten Your Vehicles Bolt!
The sad truth is relatively few ATV owners take the time to properly maintain their machines. One of the most important maintenance tasks is regularly checking and tightening the bolts. This may seem like a small task, but it is essential for keeping the ATV in safe working condition. Loose bolts can cause parts to come loose or fall off entirely, which can lead to serious injuries. In addition, loose bolts can make the ATV harder to control, increasing the risk of an accident. By taking the time to check and tighten the bolts regularly, riders can help ensure that their ATV is always ready for action.
Conclusion
Follow these tips to keep your ATV in good condition and it will last for years. Regular maintenance is key, as well as being aware of the signs that something needs repair. If you take care of your ATV, it will take care of you. Be sure to hit those trails this summer!