General
1-12
Current designations for brake fluid are
DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5, this
classification appears on the fluid
container. Each type of brake fluid has
its own definite characteristics. Do not
intermix different types of brake fluid as
this may cause brake system failure.
DOT 5 brake fluid is silicone based.
DOT 5 is not compatible with other
brake fluids may cause brake system
failure. When adding brake fluid, only
use the fluid recommended by the
manufacturer. Brake fluid will damage
any plastic, painted or plated surface it
contacts. Use extreme care when
working with brake fluid and remove
any spills immediately with soap and
water. Hydraulic brake systems require
clean and moisture free brake fluid.
Never reuse brake fluid.
Keep containers and reservoirs properly
sealed.
Warning:
Never put a mineral-based
(Petroleum) oil into the brake
system. Mineral oil causes rubber
parts in the system to deteriorate
causing complete brake failure.
Coolant
Coolant is a mixture of water and
antifreeze used to dissipate engine
heat. Ethylene glycol is the most
common form of antifreeze. Check the
UTV Manufacturer’s recommendations
when selecting antifreeze. Most require
one specifically designed for aluminum
engines. These types of antifreeze
have additives that inhibit corrosion.
Only mix antifreeze with distilled water.
Impurities in tap water may damage
internal cooling system passages.
Cleaners, Degreasers and
Solvents
Many chemicals are available to remove oil,
grease and other residue from the UTV.
Before using cleaning solvents, consider
how they will be used and disposed of,
particularly if they are not water-soluble.
Local ordinances may restrict types of
cleaning chemicals. Refer to Safer in this
chapter. Use brake parts cleaner to clean
brake system components. Brake parts
cleaner leaves no residue. Electrical
contact cleaner is a powerful solvent used
to remove fuel deposits and varnish from
fuel system components. Use this cleaner
carefully, as it may damage finishes.
Most solvents are designed to be used with
a parts washing cabinet for individual
component cleaning. For safety, use only
nonflammable or high flash point solvents.
Gasket Sealant
Sealant is used in combination with a
gasket or seal. In other applications, such
as between crankcase halves, only a
sealant is used. Follow the manufacturer’s
recommendation when using a sealant.
Use extreme care when choosing a
sealant, or a different sealant based on its
resistance to heat, various fluids and its
sealing capabilities.
Gasket Remover
Aerosol gaskets remover can help remove
stubborn gasket. This product can speed
up the removal process and prevent
damage to the mating surface that may be
caused by using a scraping tool. Most of
these types of products are very caustic.
Follow the gasket remover manufacturer’s
instructions for use.
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