i just bought a rancher 420 and was wondering,how often should you replace the gear oil if riding in a lot of water.does water get in?also the drum brakes does water get in there too?

 

I'd be sure to check the axle oil frequently if you are going in deep water. They don't hold much, and it's quick and easy to change.

After a few times, you will get an idea of what it takes to get water in there.

Honda's drum brakes generally have a drain plug, that you could pull after a water ride.

 

I agree with JeffinTD 100% the maintence with both the diff's and also remove the brake drums at least every 6 month's inspect and clean brake dust with spray brake cleaner , clean old grease from the backing plate area where the brake shoe's slide back and forth on backing plate's ; and the first investment i would make on the quad is a good quality O.E.M. Honda Service And Repair Shop Manual ; it will pay for itself with just the very first complete servicng of the quad here in my area ( North Ga. ) Labor run's $90.00 an hour + part's !

With a good shop manual even someone with no training in basic Machanical skill's can save enough on just little job's like oil and filter change's , air filter cleaning and reoiling will payfor the cost of the shop manual in no time at all ; good luck with your quad , have fun riding , be safe and above all else Remember to " Tread Lightly " so we don't give the tree hugger's ammunition to use again't us to take away the land that we're allowed to ride now !.........

 

Every manufacturer wants to present their vehicles as being "low maintenance", so they quote unrealistic maintenance intervals in the owner's manuals. As I recall, they recommend a 2 year change interval...which is not nearly often enough in real world conditions.

I change mine every 6 months. It's super easy, and doesn't require more than a few ounces of oil.

If you are in the water a lot, I would check for water contamination often!!!

 

If you are going to play submarine, you might look into a snorkle that includes all the vent lines.

In my experience, though, if you get water in the engine getting the water out isn't the problem, its the grit that tends to come with it that will require complete engine disassembly and a new oil cooler. A lot of times people just try to flush that stuff out, and end up with an engine that eats rings and pistons.

 

thanks a lot guys,although i do not play submarine with the bike i have been in water as deep as two feet a few times its not that often,mostly trail riding.i like the idea of knowing that i can cross through something to get to the other side.i dont use it to play in deep water.i know the bike was not designed for that.