Keeping your UTV Trail Ready
What's the key to a good time on the trail? Well a high-powered, high-quality side by side, of course. But one of the main factors that ensures your four wheeler is a high-quality four wheeler is maintenance. Yes, it can be a bit of a pain sometimes, but routine inspections and service will keep your UTV performing better for much longer. Even simple tasks like checking your tires and changing the oil will improve your vehicle's riding abilities and longevity, so check out this short guide to learn more about basic UTV maintenance. Most of these tasks can be done yourself, but for more technical work, bring your side by side into Cycles Of Jacksonville, where our parts and service departments are always here to help you out! We're located in Jacksonville, near St. Augustine and Orlando, Florida.
Oil Checks
Just like a car, your UTV has an internal combustion engine. The moving parts in your motor need lubrication to keep from getting damaged, and the only way to prevent damage is to check your oil frequently. Take a look at it before every ride to make sure it's full and in good condition, and change the oil and filter as needed. If you do this, you're engine will keep running strong for years to come.
Coolant Levels
A UTV can run its entire life without completely changing the coolant, but things happen on the trail that can cause leaks and other issues. To be on the safe side, we also recommend checking the coolant before every ride. Top it off if it's low, and if you notice you're losing a lot of fluid every time you ride, there might be a leak. This could be a sign of a bigger problem, so bring it in for service if you suspect you have a leak.
Leaks in the Radiator Cap
The radiator cap draws coolant to the engine through a vacuum, which keeps your vehicle from overheating. This is an essential process in any high-performing side by side. To make sure it stays working properly, it's vital to frequently check this component for leaks, corrosion, and any other damage. Take a look at the seal every once in awhile. If it's cracked or corroded, you'll need to get it replaced immediately.
Fuel
Just because all gas will power your UTV doesn't mean all gas is equally good for your engine. Ethanol mixed with gasoline forms gel and undesirable sludge inside your motor. These can cause serious damage, so make sure you spend a little extra for high octane fuel. It's also a good idea to add fuel stabilizers so your fuel system stays in good condition.
Tire Quality and Pressure
Tires are one of the simplest parts of maintenance, but riding on low pressure or with a damaged sidewall can make riding extremely dangerous. Thankfully, keeping on top of your tires is extremely simple. Just get a tire pressure gauge and check your pressure before every ride. Fill them up as needed, and also keep an eye out for punctures, bulges, and any other signs of wear.
As you can see, maintenance is essential for safety, performance, and longevity in any four wheeler. Your side by side is cleverly designed with components that optimize your riding experience, but those components won't function very well, or for very long, if you don't keep on top of these simple maintenance duties. We want everyone to get the most out of their UTV, so we recommend doing all the inspections and repairs you're comfortable with, and then bring it into our service and parts department at Cycles Of Jacksonville for maintenance outside your skill level. We've got a lot of experience fixing up four wheelers, and we're right here in Jacksonville, near St. Augustine and Orlando, Florida.