Ask The Editors: Flooded Literally
It happens.
Believe it or not, water floods aren’t usually as damaging to ATVs as they are to a lot of other objects. Why? They’re made to get wet in their natural environment. To the point where if the machine weren’t running at the time and/ or if the water didn’t completely submerge the exterior, there is a distinct possibility there was no damage done at all.
If, on the other hand, she went all the way under, all hope still isn’t lost.. Mudders and creek crossers will tell you complete submersion does happen. These are the standard steps to take whenever an ATV stalls out in the H2O:
Step 1: Get into the air box – make sure there is no water here and that the filter isn’t damaged
Step 2: Flip the quad onto its back
Step 3: Clean the air inlet and breather tubes/ make sure there is no water trapped here
Step 4: Check the stator – insure that it is completely dry as well
Step 5: Dry out the belt housing on the CVT if so equipped
Step 6: Flush the cooling system and put in fresh
Step 7: Drain the gas tank (and carburetor if its not a fuel injected ATV)
Step 8: This is why you have the machine upside down – pull the spark plug(s) and empty the cylinders of any remaining water
Step 9: Replace with new plug(s)
Step 10: Change the engine oil
Step 11: Check differentials and transmission for water
Step 12: Flush the brakes
Step 13: Lube electric connections – be extra vigilant to clean or replace areas that have corroded or rusted because of sitting water
Step 14: Grease the moving chassis parts
Realistically, most of these items you would be doing anyway to get a machine that has sat for so long up and running anyway. Add a new battery and you should be ready to ride.
