Speed is a good thing for your CF Moto ATV as it allows you to race the trails as you explore the terrain. In times like this, the brakes are usually an afterthought. It’s until you need to make an emergency stop or slow down immediately does their importance arises.
What you need to know is that brake issues arise from a number of issues. However, most people do not recognize faulty brakes until it’s too late. Riding your CF Moto without adequate braking power could lead to serious injuries.
Want to avoid accidents when riding your CF Moto ATV? In this article, we discuss common brake problems in CF Moto ATV and offer tips on how to diagnose and fix them.
Here’s a list of common CF Moto brake problems you should be aware of:
- Corroded Brake Lines
- Dirty or Contaminated Brake Fluid
- Moisture Build-up
- Leaking Brake Fluid
- Air in the Brake System
What Causes a CF Moto Brake System to Fail?
There are several reasons why your CF Motor may experience brake problems.
Corroded Brake Lines
When you drive your ATV off-road, the fallen branches and rocks on the ground will surely damage the brake lines. When this happens, brake fluid will not flow as required. If not replaced, corrosion may build up which also prevents the proper flow of brake fluid.
Damaged brake lines will not enable you to brake your vehicle as required. In fact, it may take a while before you come to a stop. This could lead to a serious accident even when exploring different trails.
Solution
After a day of exploring different terrains, we recommend that you inspect your CF Moto brake lines. Start from the master cylinder down to the brake calipers. If you identify signs of damage to the brake lines, visit your local store or order a new one online. This should fix the issue.
Dirty or Contaminated Brake Fluid
Along the lines of damaged brake lines, the brake fluid may get dirty or contaminated. The dirt or contamination usually builds up inside the master cylinder housing specifically the small compartments and canals. When this happens, the brake fluid will not flow properly. As a result, the master cylinder of your CFMoto will not function as required.
What you need to know is that due to the build-up of dirt and contaminants, the rubber gaskets may slide over them. This will allow brake fluid to flow where it’s not required. As a result, the piston will not build enough pressure.
Solution
If you identify dirt or contaminated brake fluid as the problem, the first step is to bleed the dirty brake fluid out. Simply locate the bleed valve, open it then pump the brake lever until all the liquid is out.
Next, you need to disassemble and clean the master cylinder. We recommend that you use a small clean brush and brake cleaner for effective results. Inspect the rubber O-rings and gaskets to find out if they are worn out.
If they are, buy a replacement kit (for master cylinders) and replace the parts. Once you do so, reinstall the brake system components and then add brake fluid, usually DOT4.
Moisture Build-up
Besides dirt and other contaminants building up inside the small compartments and canals of your master cylinder, moisture may build up too. How does this happen? Well, moisture gets into the master cylinder and the brake system. Over time, the moisture levels will build up.
As a result, the residue will prevent the rubber seals from closing. As such, the brake fluid will bypass where it should not, especially as you brake.
Solution
Like before, you need to remove all the contaminated brake fluid. Simply locate the bleed valve to flush out the dirty brake fluid. Inspect the master cylinder to identify if the O-rings and other parts are damaged. If they are, buy the rebuild kit (master cylinder) and replace these parts.
Add brake fluid then tighten the brake fluid reservoir cap. This will ensure that moisture does not find its way into the brake system.
Leaking Brake Fluid
It’s uncommon for your brake fluid to leak but if it happens, your brakes will not be able to build the proper pressure. On a dirty CF Moto, it could be difficult to notice leaking brake fluid visibly dropping to the ground. However, if you notice a damp spot under the ATV, it’s best to inspect it.
Start by inspecting the brake lines from the master cylinder to the brake calipers. We recommend using a clean piece of paper towel to drag along the brake line. This will enable you to pick up any leaking brake fluid.
It’s also important to do so to the master cylinder or brake calipers as the leak could originate from these parts.
Solution
If you identify leaking brake fluid, we recommend replacing the damaged parts. For example, if the leak is in the brake caliper or master cylinder, buy a rebuild kit (for master cylinders).
However, if the leak is in the brake line connection, you can simply clean the spot and this will stop the problem. Just remember to tighten the bolt according to factory specs.
Air in the Brake System
Like moisture and dirt, air can find its way into the brake system. Any time you disassemble and assemble the master cylinder or brake system, air will enter the closed brake line system. In fact, your new brake lines will be full of air. What you need to know is that you should bleed out all the air if you want the brakes to work.
To know if the air is likely inside the brake system, the brakes will feel mushy.
Solution
If replacing parts of the brake system, simply set up all the components but do not tighten anything. Once you set up everything, start tightening all the brake line fittings and connections. However, do not tighten the banjo bolts.
Now, fill up the brake reservoir tank with new brake fluid. Start pumping the brakes and add more fluid before it drops below the minimum mark. Patience is required for this process. So, continue pumping the brake and adding the brake fluid until the fluid emerges from the loose banjo bolts.
Once this happens, tighten the bolts and continue bleeding the brakes, one caliper at a time. When all the fittings are tight, clean and you’re done.
Final Thoughts
There you have it. CF Moto brake problems and troubleshooting tips to help resolve the brake issues. With this knowledge, you can now effectively repair and replace damaged or worn-out brake parts. This will ensure that your brakes work as required and prevent future accidents.
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