I have a 2000 sportsman 500. I washed it and then let it dry, took off on it and now there is a ticking or knocking noise coming from the shifter side. Any ideas of what could make this noise? Water pump, valve clearance, cam, anything. It only does it at mid-range rpm, not a idle or wide open. Any ideas?

 

I would say to check your plug wire. The way the spark plug is on the 500 that recess can fill up with water and cause an arc. If that is it us dielectric grease around the plug.

 

Thanks for you that replied, but I need more ideas. This sound just came after cleaing it. It still runs the same but makes an annoying noise. Any ideas?

 

Did you ever find out what the noise was? I have the same noise and its driving me crazy it sound real bad but it runs good.

 

Well it has been over a year now and it is as loud as ever, but I run the **** out of it and it hasnt blown yet! I now you are gonna hate to hear this, but all I can say is learn to live with it. I know it sucks! I checked everything! Cam, rockers , timming chain, everything. I was ounce told to checked the water pump, but I got pissed at it, said F**** it and I am gonna run her tell she blows! It seems like everytime I ride it, it makes a new noise, I just dont care anymore. Good Luck