Routine maintenance on an ATV is nothing that cannot be handled by the normal weekend mechanic. Like any other vehicle, years of fun-filled riding can be added with just a few routine practices that might take a few hours to perform. Aren't a few hours of routine ATV maintenance better than taking it to a dealer for costly repairs?
The first item of routine ATV maintenance to remember is the easiest, and perhaps the most important. After every ride, the ATV needs to be cleaned of dirt and debris. Small rocks, dirt, and even dust can, over time, get into the joints and bearings of the under carriage, decreasing the vehicles handling ability and life of the motor. It only takes a few minutes, but a quick rinsing and drying after every ride will add years to the vehicle. This is one bit of routine ATV maintenance that just about everyone could do.
The second item of routine maintenance is making sure all the joints and moving parts in the ATV are properly lubricated. Following the instructional manual, which will include the up keep of the vehicle, just about any week end warrior will be able to apply the right amount of oil or other lubricant to the necessary parts. The best idea is to check for free range of movement of the various parts at least once a week and act accordingly. This simple act of routine ATV maintenance will add years of service to the vehicle.
One final note on routine ATV maintenance. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations when it comes to changing the oil, spark plugs, or getting a tune up. A little bit of preventative medicine, as described above can add years of fun-filled operation for an ATV and avoid costly repairs. Just like any other vehicle, that little bit of routine ATV maintenance will save a rider a few headaches in the future.
