3 Steps to Avoid ATV Breakdowns

Textron Off Road’s ATV offerings are solid, durable machines that can help out around the farm, handle serious hunting or fishing trips, and take you way off the beaten path for a camping trip.

All this wear and tear could lead your ATV to get a little noisier over time, with the occasional squeak turning into a regular annoyance.

When you start to hear those squeaks, rattles, and unusual growls coming from your machine, don’t just shrug it off as another little “quirk”. Even an occasional squeak could be the first sign of a potentially serious issue that needs immediate attention. 

Here are the three biggest “red flag” noises to keep in mind when trying to avoid ATV breakdowns.

1. The Noise is Worse When You’re Moving SLowly

If you’re noticing a squeak primarily when taking it slow, or when you put more weight on the front or rear of the rig, you may be looking at an issue with your wheel bearings.

Each wheel has its own set of wheel bearings, protected by simple seals. If you’re the type to take advantage of South Carolina’s ATV-friendly parks or you tend to go camping on muddy trails, heavy exposure to mud or dirt can break down the seals over time.

To discover if wheel bearings are the issue, raise your ATV so the wheels are off the ground and spin each one individually. You’ll see if wheel bearings are causing you problems, and you’ll know exactly which tire needs attention.

2. Sloppy Steering And Loud Screeching

If you notice that your steering has become noisy, sloppy, and loose, you need to take a look at your tie rods.

Tie roads are generally semi-sealed in grease cups, and when those start to loosen, you’ll notice your steering start to change and a pretty annoying screeching noise starting up.

When it comes to issues involving your steering mechanism, you’ll definitely want to give your local ATV dealer a call for repairs. 

3. That Faint Squeak Won’t Let Up

Most ATV owners really make their vehicles earn their keep, whether it’s through hard work in the agricultural field, by taking them off road for recreation, or for any number of other uses.

One of the side effects of all this hard work? The shock mounts can start to go.

If the bushings in the shock wear down, or the bolts that mount the shocks to the frame and suspension become lose, you’ll get a faint squeak from time to time, that worsens as time goes by.

The best part about this particular problem? It’s usually a simple, easy DIY fix! Just tighten the bolts back up and you’re good to go.

If you’ve tried that and you’re still hearing squeaks and having a hard time, it’s time to give Go With Garrett’s Golf Cars and Specialty Vehicles a call.

We’re Here to Help Throughout South Carolina

At Garrett’s, we maintain three locations throughout South Carolina, so we’re never more than a short drive away! Whether you’re looking for help with potential service and repair needs on your ATV, or you’re interested in picking up a new or preowned golf cart for your family, we’d be happy to help you out! Just give us a call at (864) 862 7709 for Greenville, (803) 407 2687 for Columbia, (843) 881 8894 for Charleston, or contact us online at any time!

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