ATV Cleaning Guide
ATVs are built to handle off-road conditions, so a little dirt and muck shouldn’t do any serious damage. However, leaving your ATV uncleaned for long periods of time can lead to problems such as dirt getting into the engine. It can even encourage long-term corrosion. If you want to get your ATV cleaned in the most efficient way possible while also avoiding damage, check out this guide from Hoffpauir Polaris.
Scrape or Soak the Mud Away
Your first step will be to remove the outer layer of filth from your vehicle. Keep in mind that the dirt and mud that your ATV encounters will often be intermixed with wild seeds. That’s why you should only wash your ATV on a concrete surface and be very careful about your runoff. Otherwise, you might start to see foreign grasses or weeds sprout up in your yard. You can remove the outer layer of dirt by using a garden hose or plastic scraper.
Should You Use A Pressure Washer?
A pressure washer will certainly make the process of cleaning your ATV go much faster, but most manufacturers don’t recommend it since there’s a danger that you’ll accidentally damage your vehicle. If you still choose to use a pressure washer, try to limit the pressure and only use tips that won’t harm your vehicle. Be very careful not to accidentally spray tha ATV’s electrical components, bearings, and fuel system.
Add Soap & Scrub
Whether you use a pressure washer or not, your next step will be to scrub down your quad using bike soap or automotive detergent and a scrub glove or sponge. Be especially thorough when cleaning your ATV’s plastic components. If you find any oily spots, spray them with a degreaser. If you’re having difficulty cleaning your ATV’s hard to reach areas, try using a stiff brush.
Dry and Polish
If the weather is clear, you can simply leave your ATV out to air dry. If you want to get your ATV dried as quickly as possible, use a lint-free towel. An air compressor can be used to help dry hard to reach areas. Once everything is dry, apply plastic polish and wipe everything down. Make sure that you don’t accidentally spray the ATV seat with plastic polish, as it tends to make things slippery.
Shop ATVs at Hoffpauir Polaris in Goldthwaite, Texas. We’re proud to serve communities like Austin and Waco, Texas. We hope you’ll come visit us online or in-person!
