ATV Cleaning Guide
Whether you use your ATV for trail riding or utility work, it’ll probably get dirty every once in a while. This can encourage long-term deterioration, as well as lead to dirt getting into your ATV’s engine. Luckily, this guide from the experts at Anderson Powersports Bullhead.
Scrape or Soak the Mud Away
ATVs usually pick up wild seeds along with dirt and muck. That’s why you need to be especially careful about your runoff. Any of those seeds that end up on grass will lead to weeds or foreign grasses taking root. Ideally, you should use a concrete surface to clean your ATV. If the grime is really caked on, you can scrape some of it off using a plastic scraper. If you don’t have a scraper handy, hose your quad down to remove the first layer of mud.
Should You Use A Pressure Washer?
Many ATV manufacturers recommend against using a pressure washer to clean your vehicle. While a pressure washer will make the cleaning go faster, there’s also a fair chance that you’ll accidentally damage your ATV in the process. If you decide to use a pressure washer to clean your ATV anyway, be very careful about which tip you equip and how much pressure you use. Avoid spraying any electrical components, bearings, and the fuel system.
Add Soap & Scrub
Once the dirt is gone, it's time to start scrubbing. Bike soap or automotive detergent and a scrub glove or sponge will give you the best results. Focus on getting your ATV’s plastic components, seat, frame, and wheels clean in particular. A stiff brush can be helpful for cleaning any hard to reach areas. Finally, use degreaser to remove any oily spots. Be sure to follow the degreaser’s instructions on how long to keep it on before wiping it off.
Dry It Off
If conditions are warm and the forecast doesn’t predict any precipitation, your ATV can be air dried. If that’s not the case, wipe down your ATV with a lint-free towel. Harder to reach areas can be dried using an air compressor.
Polishing
Once your ATV has fully dried, it’s time to spray on some plastic polish and wipe the quad down. Just make sure that you don’t accidentally spray any of the polish on the seat. Plastic polish tends to make things slippery, potentially leading to the rider falling off.
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