[Gus_19]

Not sure if this is anything major, but I have noticed a bit of a squealing noise in my 02 Foreman/Rubicon 500. The noise only occurs after the ATV hs been running for a bit, like after its warmed up and while idling. As soon as I give a little throttle, the noise goes away. I thought there might be a vac leak somewhere, but honestly dont even know where to start looking. What's even more strange after riding around for quite a bit longer time, I noticed the squeaking noise go away. Any suggestions or concerns I should have, if any?

 

[retro]

Is it full of clean motor oil? The oil pump may need to be replaced with an updated part number used from 2005 through 2009 on all Rubicons. The way I understand that oil pump upgrade is, it may prevent the Hondamatic trans from failing, or at least extend the life of it if the oil pump is replaced in time. There may be more to it than that.

 

[Gus_19]

Yes, I purchased the quad about 2 years ago, onlynhaving put 150 miles on it but changed it out twice. Any other suggestions on how to diagnose the oil pump?

 

[retro]

If it hasn't been updated yet, it should be replaced as soon as possible during a teardown inspection. Its not a factor whether its still pumping or not, the original pump was insufficient causing the early Hondamatics to fail. The '05 & up part number solved the problem as far as I know. I'm not certain, but I think there was one more part (pressure regulator?) that should be replaced along with the pump. Also need new OEM gaskets and o-rings for reassembly.

If you are hearing noise from yours it may be too late, but you won't know until you take it apart for inspection. The angle bearing and the transfer valves are the main parts that fail. Honda does not supply any replacement parts for them so the entire assembly must be replaced following a failure.