With spring in the air, it’s time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. For our ATV drivers out there, that means hitting trails and getting a little dirty.
If you stored your ATV away for the winter, you’ll no doubt be itching to get out and take it for a run. Not so fast there, rider!
Before you head out, your ATV is due for a little TLC. See, even though it hasn’t been running, a winter spent sitting can be a little rough on any vehicle.
Springtime maintenance for your ATV will ensure that your vehicle will last you an entire season of fun riding, mudding and enjoying the outdoors. And for those of you who may be taking your first steps into ATV ownership this year, these spring maintenances will get your soon-to-be new obsession off to a safe start.
Be sure to take care of these things before taking your ATV out on your first run of the spring season.
Look for critter damage
The first and most simple maintenance you can give your vehicle is a visual inspection. If you’ve kept your ATV in a garage or shed, it’s possible critters may have gotten in and caused havoc. These little guys can chew on seat cushions, steering wheels, handle bars and even tires. They can also find their way into tailpipes to make little nests. Give your ATV an inspection to make sure these critters and pests haven’t done any major damage that needs to be addressed.
Check the tires
Winter weather can affect your tire pressure so before you head out make sure to check them out. Top off tire pressure if necessary and check their overall condition for damage from dry rot or any other issues. The last thing you want is to be driving your ATV around in rough conditions on a set of bad tires. Your ATVs tires are subject to a lot of abuse anyway, so a new set may be a smart investment regardless. If they are showing signs of wear, tear or damage, start your season off with a fresh set of tires for a year of smooth riding.
Change the oil
A top priority for any ATV owner getting their vehicle out of storage should be changing the oil. As we all know, one of the simplest and most effective methods for maintaining the health and peak performance for any vehicle is keeping the oil topped off and changed regularly. As oil sits unused for the winter, it can separate and thin out, reducing its protective properties. Even if you changed the oil before storing it for the winter, it is a safe move to change the oil again before you take it out for the season.
Test it before you drive it
The cold weather can be hard on your ATV’s battery and engine. Before you go out on your first run, take it for a test drive beforehand. That way if your battery dies on your or you encounter an issue with the engine, you won’t be stranded far, far away. Fire up the engine and take it for a quick run around the block, around your house or just let it run for a few minutes. This will also give it an opportunity to let the fluids start pumping again.
Here’s to a fun season of ATV riding. If you need new ATV tires check out the vast selection at Raben Tire.