There’s nothing like seeing your young rider’s face light up on their Can-Am DS 70. But that excitement can quickly turn to frustration when the little quad won’t start, bogs down, or just doesn’t run right. You’re left scratching your head in the garage instead of watching them rip around the yard.
We’ve been there. The good news is that most can-am ds 70 problems are surprisingly simple to fix with basic tools and a little guidance. You don’t need to be a master mechanic to get that ATV running like new again.
In this complete guide from FatBoysOffroad, we promise to walk you through the most common issues step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from simple starting troubles and carburetor tuning to electrical gremlins and the essential maintenance that keeps you on the trail. Let’s get wrenching.
The “Why Won’t It Start?” Checklist: Engine & Fuel System Woes
A no-start condition is the most frequent complaint we hear. Before you panic, run through this logical checklist. The solution is often easier than you think. This section will show you how to tackle these can-am ds 70 problems head-on.
The Holy Trinity of No-Start: Spark, Fuel, and Air
Every gas engine needs three things to run: a spark to ignite, fuel to burn, and air to mix with the fuel. If one is missing, you’re going nowhere.
1. Check for Spark: Unscrew the spark plug with a spark plug socket. Plug it back into the spark plug wire cap and hold the threaded part of the plug against a metal part of the engine block. Crank the engine and look for a consistent, blue spark.
- No Spark or Weak Spark? Start with a new NGK CR7HSA spark plug. If that doesn’t work, the issue could be the plug wire, ignition coil, or CDI box.
- Good Spark? Great! Move on to fuel.
2. Check for Fuel: Is there fresh gas in the tank? Turn the fuel petcock to “ON” or “RES.” The easiest way to confirm fuel flow is to slightly loosen the drain screw on the bottom of the carburetor bowl. If fuel dribbles out, the carb is getting gas.
3. Check for Air: Remove the seat and access the airbox. Is the air filter clogged with dirt or oil? A dirty filter can choke the engine. Clean or replace it as needed.
Is the Tether Cord and Kill Switch Your Culprit?
This is a classic youth ATV issue! The DS 70 has a safety tether on the rear grab bar that kills the engine if the rider falls off. Ensure the tether cap is fully seated.
Likewise, check the red engine kill switch on the handlebars. It’s easy for it to get bumped into the “OFF” position. Make sure it’s set to “RUN.” These two simple checks solve a surprising number of no-start problems.
Carburetor Cleaning 101: Tackling Gunk and Varnish
If fuel sits in the carburetor for too long, it turns to varnish and clogs the tiny passages called jets. This is a leading cause of hard starting and poor running.
Cleaning the carb seems intimidating, but it’s manageable. You’ll need to remove it from the ATV, take off the float bowl, and carefully remove the main jet and pilot jet. Use carb cleaner spray and compressed air to blow out all passages. Never poke metal wires through the jets, as this can damage them.
Solving Common Can-Am DS 70 Problems with Power & Performance
Once the ATV is running, you might notice it hesitates, bogs down, or lacks power. These performance-related issues often point back to the fuel and electrical systems. Here’s a quick guide to these common problems with can-am ds 70 machines.
Bogging Down or Hesitating? It’s Probably the Carb… Again
If the DS 70 idles fine but bogs down when you give it gas, the main jet in the carburetor is likely still partially clogged. A thorough cleaning is the first step.
Another culprit could be the fuel/air mixture screw. If it has been tampered with, it can cause poor performance. Consult your owner’s manual for the stock setting (usually around 1.5 to 2.5 turns out from lightly seated) and adjust from there.
Electrical Gremlins: Diagnosing the CDI and Stator
If you have no spark and you’ve already replaced the spark plug and checked the kill switches, the problem might be more complex. The two main components are the CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) box and the stator.
The CDI box is the “brain” of the ignition system. The stator, located behind the flywheel cover on the side of the engine, generates the power for the spark. Diagnosing these requires a multimeter to test for resistance values specified in a service manual. If you’re not comfortable with electrical diagnostics, this is a good time to consult a professional mechanic.
Battery Care and Charging
The DS 70 has an electric start that relies on a small battery. If the battery is weak, the starter won’t have enough juice to turn the engine over effectively.
Keep the battery on a trickle charger or battery tender when not in use for long periods. If the battery is more than a few years old and won’t hold a charge, it’s time for a replacement. A healthy battery is crucial for reliable starting.
Drivetrain and Brakes: Keeping Your Rider Safe
The engine isn’t the only source of trouble. Proper maintenance of the chain, sprockets, and brakes is essential for both performance and, more importantly, safety.
Chain and Sprocket Maintenance: Tension is Everything
A loose chain can fall off, and a chain that’s too tight can cause premature wear on the sprockets and bearings. Check the chain tension before every ride.
It should have about 1 inch of up-and-down play in the middle of its run. To adjust, loosen the rear axle carrier bolts and use the adjuster mechanism to get the right tension. Always lubricate the chain with a quality chain lube after cleaning or riding in wet conditions.
Adjusting and Inspecting the Drum Brakes
The DS 70 uses mechanical drum brakes. They are simple but require periodic adjustment. You’ll find adjuster nuts on the brake cables near the handlebar levers and the foot pedal.
Tighten these nuts until the brakes engage firmly without dragging when released. If you run out of adjustment, it’s time to replace the brake shoes inside the drum.
A Proactive Can-Am DS 70 Problems Care Guide
The best way to fix problems is to prevent them. Following a few can-am ds 70 problems best practices will save you headaches and keep the quad reliable for years. This is your essential care guide.
The Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
Before every ride, take two minutes to check the following:
- Tires: Check for proper air pressure and any signs of damage.
- Controls & Cables: Ensure the throttle and brakes operate smoothly.
- Lights & Electrics: Test the kill switch and tether cord function.
- Oil & Fuel: Check the oil level and make sure you have enough fresh fuel.
- Chain & Chassis: Glance over the chain tension and look for any loose nuts or bolts.
Oil Changes and Air Filter Cleaning: The Non-Negotiables
Regular oil changes are the single most important thing you can do for engine longevity. Use a quality 10W-40 ATV oil and change it according to the schedule in your owner’s manual.
The air filter is the engine’s only defense against dirt. After every dusty ride, remove the foam filter, wash it in soap and water, let it dry completely, and then re-oil it with foam filter oil.
Sustainable Maintenance: Proper Fluid Disposal and Extending ATV Life
Part of responsible ownership includes being eco-friendly. When you change the oil, collect the used oil in a sealed container and take it to an auto parts store or local recycling center. Never dump it on the ground or in the trash.
This commitment to proper care is also a form of sustainable ownership. A well-maintained DS 70 will last for many years, providing value and fun for multiple young riders instead of ending up in a landfill. This is one of the key benefits of understanding and fixing can-am ds 70 problems yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am DS 70 Problems
What kind of fuel should I use in a Can-Am DS 70?
Use fresh, 87-octane unleaded gasoline. If you plan on letting the ATV sit for more than a month, it’s a great idea to add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to prevent the gas from going bad and gumming up the carburetor.
How do I adjust the throttle limiter screw for a new rider?
On the throttle housing on the right handlebar, there is a screw that limits how far the throttle lever can be pushed. Turning the screw in will reduce the maximum speed, which is perfect for beginners. As the rider gains confidence and skill, you can gradually back the screw out to allow for more speed.
Why does my DS 70 smoke a little when it first starts?
A small puff of white or blue smoke on a cold start can be normal, often caused by a little oil getting past the valve seals or piston rings when the engine is cold. However, if the ATV continuously smokes blue while riding, it could indicate worn piston rings, which may require a top-end engine rebuild.
Where can I find a service manual for my DS 70?
The best resource is an official Can-Am factory service manual. You can often purchase these from a dealership or find digital versions online through owner forums or ATV enthusiast websites. It provides detailed diagrams, torque specs, and diagnostic procedures that are invaluable for any DIY mechanic.
Working on your young rider’s DS 70 is more than just a repair job; it’s an opportunity to ensure their safety and teach valuable lessons about mechanical responsibility. By following this guide, you can confidently tackle the most common issues that arise.
Remember to always work methodically, put safety first by disconnecting the battery when working on electrical components, and never hesitate to ask for help if you get stuck. Now you have the knowledge and a solid set of can-am ds 70 problems tips.
Grab your tools, follow these steps, and get that DS 70 running like a champ. Happy wrenching and safe riding!
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