Just like a car, doing a little bit of maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your UTV. We all know that it can really screw up your whole day if you get ready to go only to find that your utility vehicle isn't running.
Most people who have purchased a side by side use it for things other than just recreation. They are great machines to have around for hauling materials, people, and tools. Many different attachments are also available like trailers, snowplows and self powered mowers that make them even more versatile. Keeping yours running can mean the difference between spending money, and making money.
With so many UTVs on the market for sale from a lot of different manufacturers, it is very important to check your owners manual for a service schedule that should outline what to check and how often you should. Not everyone is mechanically inclined, so if you are not, it is a good idea to take your side x side to a qualified mechanic for any major repairs.
At the beginning of each season (spring, summer, winter, fall) is usually a good time for doing your regular UTV maintenance. The major areas to focus your attention on are the oil, oil filter, air filter, tire pressure and tightening the nuts and bolts on and around the major components. While these are not the only maintenance items you should check, most problems arise from not servicing these key elements.
Long engine life can be achieved simply by regularly changing your oil and oil filter. Contaminates are not good for your engine, and if you don't change the oil according to the manual then you are asking for trouble. Another good idea to follow is that if you are planning to store the machine and let it sit idle for a while you should go ahead and change the oil. Storing your utility vehicle for several months can allow the acids that build up in used motor oil to attack the internal components of the engine.
Since these machines are commonly used off road, dust and debris can clog your air filter and effectively choke your motor and cause poor gas mileage and other engine problems. Clean or change your air filter as part of your routine maintenance. Most brands of UTV's have an air filter that can be removed and replaced without any tools. Open your air filter housing to find out which type of filter you have. If you find that your is a foam type filter, these can be cleaned and then reused. Some Side by Side units come with paper air filters that should just be replaced like those found in a car.
Check your manual for grease fitting locations. Now pull out your grease gun and get to work. Keeping grease on these moving parts will keep everything lubed up and moving freely. Keep a wrench set handy to check bolts to make sure they are tight. Engine vibration and riding on rough terrain can loosen these up over time. Check your wheels, suspension shock bolts, and all major components.
With so many UTVs on the market for sale from a lot of different manufacturers, it is very important to check your owners manual for a service schedule that should outline what to check and how often you should. Not everyone is mechanically inclined, so if you are not, it is a good idea to take your side x side to a qualified mechanic for any major repairs.
At the beginning of each season (spring, summer, winter, fall) is usually a good time for doing your regular UTV maintenance. The major areas to focus your attention on are the oil, oil filter, air filter, tire pressure and tightening the nuts and bolts on and around the major components. While these are not the only maintenance items you should check, most problems arise from not servicing these key elements.
Long engine life can be achieved simply by regularly changing your oil and oil filter. Contaminates are not good for your engine, and if you don't change the oil according to the manual then you are asking for trouble. Another good idea to follow is that if you are planning to store the machine and let it sit idle for a while you should go ahead and change the oil. Storing your utility vehicle for several months can allow the acids that build up in used motor oil to attack the internal components of the engine.
Since these machines are commonly used off road, dust and debris can clog your air filter and effectively choke your motor and cause poor gas mileage and other engine problems. Clean or change your air filter as part of your routine maintenance. Most brands of UTV's have an air filter that can be removed and replaced without any tools. Open your air filter housing to find out which type of filter you have. If you find that your is a foam type filter, these can be cleaned and then reused. Some Side by Side units come with paper air filters that should just be replaced like those found in a car.
Check your manual for grease fitting locations. Now pull out your grease gun and get to work. Keeping grease on these moving parts will keep everything lubed up and moving freely. Keep a wrench set handy to check bolts to make sure they are tight. Engine vibration and riding on rough terrain can loosen these up over time. Check your wheels, suspension shock bolts, and all major components.
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