Any 4-wheeler fan already knows that you can get miles and miles of enjoyment out of your rig as long as you take care of it. 4-wheelers are fun machines, and like all machines they need maintenance. A little preventative maintenance will save you time, money and possibly injury. Knowing how to do basic maintenance of your 4-wheeler is just good knowledge to have.
The following is collection of tips from veteran 4-wheeler riders that might save you a little wear and tear on your own 4-wheeler:
Brakes
Brake Seal and Wheel Seals are expensive to buy for your 4-wheeler, so every 500 miles or so, remove your front hubs, rear axle hubs, and brake drums, and coat the seals with marine grease - this will stop water from getting the brakes, and the axle seals won't dry up and leak. Carry a set of spare brake pads with you for emergencies. Braking your 4-wheeler makes severe-duty pads that hold up to wear much better than normal OEM pads.Once your 4-wheelers brake fluid has boiled, it will boil easier again. Change the fluid if you use your brakes to the point where they fade.
Spark Plugs
If your 4-wheeler starts sputtering and missing while crossing streams, then you probably need to either a new waterproof spark plug cap or apply dielectric grease to the spark plug boot. You should be able to find the grease in any auto parts store.
Silencers
Don't neglect your silencer. Repacking it with new material is cheap and easy and will allow your 4-wheeler to run better. The only way to properly lube your cables is with a cable luber. The difference it can make with your 4-wheelers clutch and brake action is incredible.
Tires
Tire sealant can save your day if you happen to get a small puncture on the trail.
Always carry a small container of various sized (mainly short & fat) sheet metal screws in your pocket when riding. If the terrain you're in has lots of big thorns, the screws plus the Air Lock Tire Sealant will get you back to civilization with your 4-wheeler, unless you're running tube-type tires.
These are all great hints, now go forth and ride your 4-wheeler a little wiser!
