Finding out your ATV isn’t ready for a planned or even spontaneous outing is a real killjoy. Whether you’re taking a solo trip or going out with the gang, getting stuck on the sidelines because your ATV needs some work is no fun. That’s why giving your ATV a thorough inspection is wise to make sure it’s ready to go when the opportunity for adventure arises.
Keep your ATV ready for action
Check out these top 9 things to check out to get your ATV ready for the trails ahead.
1) Starters: If it’s getting hard to start your ATV, checking out the condition of your starter is important. The starter is an electrical component that turns over your engine. Like most everything else, starters have a finite lifespan and will eventually wear out. If you hear clicking sounds when starting, that could be a telltale sign of a failing starter.
2) Alternators: The alternator generates electrical current for your ATV. If your alternator fails, you’ll quickly have no power. Signs that an alternator could be going bad include a battery that can’t keep a charge and accessories like lights that operate erratically. In the case of lights, you might notice fading, dimming and flickering.
3) Batteries: Everyone has probably experienced a dead battery at some point. Batteries are storage units for electrical power. Interestingly enough, batteries and alternators work as partners. If one component is weak, it drags down the performance of the other. Many times, alternators and batteries should be replaced at the same time to avoid compromising the other.
4) Solenoids: These electromagnetic switches deliver power to the starter. They take low voltage and increase it to higher voltage to give the starter what it needs to activate. If your solenoid is failing, it’s like a missing link that will compromise the entire electrical system. Signs of a bad solenoid include clicking sounds, silence when starting, slow cranking or a starter that won’t disengage. Many of these signs are similar to other ailing electrical components, so sometimes you need to do some detective work to isolate the source of the problem.
5) Axles: Of course, not all problems are limited to the electrical system of an ATV. You need to maintain the mechanical components as well for your ATV to be trail ready. On rough terrain, your axles will take a real beating. It’s best not to compromise on quality for axles. The best axles will feature chromoly steel with large diameters, waterproof neoprene boots to protect joints and high-performance molybdenum grease to reduce heat and friction.
6) Crankshafts: The mechanical power you need to move is produced by the crankshaft. They convert output from the pistons into rotational motion to power the wheels. The crankshafts in an ATV experience significant force and vibration, so it’s important to equip your ATV with highly engineered components. You should look for ones with gears rated at DIN Class 9 or higher.
7) Connecting Rods: The link between the piston and crankshaft is the connecting rod. Torque is generated by transmitting downward force of the power stroke to the crankshaft. Connecting rods endure significant stress in the engine compartment. You want to make sure you install highly rated connecting rods that handle extreme force.
8) Brake Components: Yes, the fun part of riding an ATV is going, but sometimes you really do have to stop. When it’s necessary to stop, you want to do it confidently. If your brakes are slipping or squealing, it’s best to thoroughly inspect your calipers, master cylinders, brake pads and other brake system components.
9) Lights: If the lights on your ATV are burned out or broken, you're limiting the times when you can ride safely, and chances are you're not the type of person who likes limitations. But the fact is that driving after dark without lights is a legitimate safety concern. Many ATV riders today are choosing to upgrade to LED lights for their exceptional brightness. LEDs cast light farther and wider than old fashioned halogen lights.
Making sure your ATV is ready to ride
When you get the urge to hit the trails on your ATV, do it with confidence that it’s ready to go. Being confident about the condition of your ATV will allow you to focus on the fun. After all, that’s what riding is all about!
