The steering on my 05 Rubicon is making a popping noise whenever I turn it left and go back to the right. It does this when I have jacked up to. It sounds like it is coming from the steering shaft. Could this be a bearing? Right before it started doing this I rode quite a few rough and rocky trails in Utah. Couple times I hit a rock and the wheels turned on me pretty hard. Could this have something to do with the noise? There is no play in the steering. Thanks

 

I don't think its a bearing. A bearing would make a grinding sound. The steering shaft should also be ok unless you rolled it over? I would really be looking at the tie rod ends, both inner and outer. Put your hand on different parts of your suspension to see if you can feel it. Is your steering harder now?

 

No I did not roll it over. The steering is not any harder. I will try to find again tomorrow. Thanks

 

I would check the bearing at the bottom of the steering shaft. I had a recon that it went out on and it did the same noise. Kind of a new bike for it to be shot on, but wont hurt to look.

 

The bike does have over 3000 miles on it. How long do bearings usually last?

 

double check these numbers, but I believe there was a recall on this

Hazard: The steering rods can separate, causing the driver to lose steering control. This could cause the ATV to crash and pose a risk of serious injury or death.

2005 - TRX500FA Foreman Rubicon, VIN 1HFTE260*54400010 to 1HFTE260*54402169
2005 - TRX500FGA Foreman Rubicon GPS, VIN 1HFTE264*54400012 to 1HFTE264*54400555

I wouldn't ride it until it was fixed

 

Is there a way to find out the vin number if I can't see it? There is a winch right on top of it. Will I have to take the winch off?

 

Don't you have paperwork? It will be on it if you do.

 

I found out where the noise is coming from. It is bearing right above the steering rods. I can put my hand on the bearing plate and feel it vibrate when it pops. When I turn the wheels slow it won't do it as bad as when I turn it faster. Does anybody know what would cause this? Could there be a little rock in there?