5 Tools You Need to Get If You Own an ATV
An ATV gives you a sense of freedom as you hit the trails, travel to parts unknown, and take on rugged conditions. You can venture off by yourself or make it a tradition to ride with friends. While an ATV is sturdy and tough enough to stand up to many challenges, you still need to be prepared for the unexpected. You may break down on the trail in the middle of nowhere. Regular maintenance is a must as well if you want your machine to run its best. Take care as you fill a toolbox for the ride and one to keep at home. Make sure you have at least 5 essential tools to give your ATV the attention it deserves.
Don’t Forget Your Sockets and Socket Wrenches
While ATVs are built to withstand rough conditions, from rocks to mud and the untamed wilderness, it doesn’t mean their tires are invincible. You could blow a tire when you are out on the ride, especially if you hit jagged rocks or your tires are worn down.
There’s a good chance you won’t have access to an ATV repair shop or new tires on the trail. You’ll need to do the job yourself. A basic set of sockets and socket wrenches is a good place to start. You may also need a breaker bar.
Don’t forget to always bring a spare tire with you. A tire repair kit that includes plugs is good to have on hand. A minor repair may be enough to pull you through until you can replace your tire.
Pack a Set of Screwdrivers
A screwdriver isn’t only a household tool. You can opt for a screwdriver that allows you to swap out the heads or bring a set. This valuable tool can help you in a variety of situations. You can use it to start your machine when you’ve misplaced your key.
It’s also useful when changing your tires if you don’t have a socket wrench. It’s best to have several sizes. If you know your way around an ATV, your screwdrivers will be indispensable.
Keep a Grease Gun in Your Kit
An electric grease gun is a must when you need to lubricate your chain, ball joints, zerk fittings, throttle cable, shocks, and more. An electric gun will make your life much easier. You won’t wear yourself out every time you perform regular maintenance on your ATV.
Plan on giving your machine a thorough cleaning and a run-through after every ride. You’ll extend the life of your ATV, keeping it in top form.
Tuck an Axle Wrench for ATVs in Your Toolbox
An axle wrench explicitly designed for ATVs is the only thing that will fit the nut that keeps a rear axle in place. You should check this nut often, including when you set out on a trip.
If this nut becomes loose, the carrier barriers for your axle could become loose. Be proactive to ensure you don’t have costly problems with your machine.
Pick Up a Set of Pliers
Consider stocking up on multi-pliers, a comprehensive set of pliers that can fill in for every need, and snap ring pliers. You should stock up with pliers in your toolbox at home. You need to bring them along on the ride as well.
Pliers are useful for many repair and maintenance jobs. You will be surprised at the new uses you can find for this versatile tool. You won’t want to own an ATV without a set.
Bottom Line
You won’t stop at 5 tools when you are filling your kit. Allen wrenches, wire cutters, a portable air compressor, and a tire gauge are only a few more tools that should be on your list. You’ll also want a winch attached to the front of your machine. It will help you to get out of a sticky situation or help someone else who is hung up on the trails. Always bring your kit, whether you are by yourself or riding with a crew. Be the go-to friend who has what everyone needs when mechanical problems arise. You’ll be able to enjoy the rest of your ride.
