so I just bought a used 2004 arctic cat 500 4x4 auto.
I did a oil change on it and drove it around a bit and it seemed fine then I took it out on some real trails and noticed a strange noise coming from the front end. Its almost like a chain or something grinding and rattling around.
It only happens when I let off the throttle at higher speeds but as soon as I hit the gas again it goes away. It also does it if I coast down a hill and if I hit a bump it sounds really bad. I was able to control the noise by riding my front breaks squeezing them to slow down but still giving it enough gas to sort of stop the noise. If someone has had something like this and knows what the cause is or a idea of where to start looking I would appreciate it thanks

 

any of your boots torn to your joints?? Front diff engage properly?

I have not disassembled an Arctic Cat diff but have taken my sportsman diff apart and man was it destroyed because i let water sit in it too long.

 

essadis420 I think what you're hearing is the limited slip diff if so it's normal , you say it only happens when you at high speeds and goes away when hit the throttle , I'm the original owner of a 2006 Arctic Cat 400 FIS 4x4 with the diff lock and mine has done the same thing you described from day one and it does it when going down steep hills ; When I grab the front brake handle ( whitch controls both the front and rear brake on my 06 model ) or when I feather the throttle the noise goes away !
I would change the front diff oil drain the old gear oil and check for any metal shavings that may be in the drain pan , if there's not a lot of metal shavings in the pan you're good to go , you'll know for sure when you drain the diff , then if it looks ok refill the diff with 80 to 90 wt gear oil ; if you ride in deep water I would use a marine grade gear oil !
I hope this is the case with your 04 500 4x4 Auto , I have a strong feeling that what you are hearing because my 06 AC 400 FIS Auto 4x4 ; good luck with your Quad these Suzuki Engines are bullit Pruff if take good care with the maintenance on these Arctic Cats ..........
williebee....

 

if the brakes are the same as on my 2014 500 then you may be hearing them rattle. Mine has done it since i got it with no way to stop it. Easy way to find out is pull a tire off and see if you can wiggle the pads.