1.2 All-Terrain Vehicles and Utility Vehicles
ATV and UTV Descriptions
Before Operating: Know Your Vehicle
Get to know the ATV or UTV that you will be using. Read the owners manual and talk to others who have used the vehicle.
ATV
Three-wheel ATVs are no longer being manufactured because they were found to be unstable, resulting in many deaths and injuries. Below are two images of an ATV with key components labeled. Clicking on the “i” information logo will bring up a detailed description for some of these parts.
UTV
Below are two views of a UTV with key components labeled. Clicking on the image will enlarge it in a new window.
This next image includes labeled controls and dashboard gauges. Hovering over or clicking on each “i” information logo will bring up its name.
DAILY – Preoperational Checks
Consider creating a maintenance log for all the vehicles on the feedyard. This can be done using guidance in the owner’s manual. This will not only provide a checklist for the operators but will ensure that equipment is being properly maintained.
Be sure to check each day:
- Test safety systems
- Check tire pressure
- Check fuel level
- Check engine oil level
- Check coolant level (UTV)
- Check air intake is clear
- Clean operator’s station and engine compartment
- Clean engine cooling screens (UTV)
- Inspect roll-cage and nets (UTV)
- Seat belts (UTV)
Additional checks:
- tire pressure (know the appropriate pressure – range from 5-15 psi),
- gas and oil levels
- check for fluid leaks
- brakes are functioning properly
- foot shifter is firmly attached
- lights are working properly
Warning – Working on ATV/UTV
- Avoid injury! Engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide and can cause serious illness or death.
- Move the vehicle to an outside area before running the engine.
- Do not run an engine in an enclosed area without adequate ventilation.
- Connect a pipe extension to the engine exhaust pipe to direct the exhaust fumes out of the area.
- Allow fresh outside air into the work area to clear the exhaust fumes out.
Review
Work through these interactive questions to review the important concepts discussed.