I have a 2001 scrambler 500, a while ago it started making a noise in the rear when going over bumps. We took the chain off and found a sprocket missing a tooth and replaced it. The problem got slightly better but it still made the noise once in awhile. Then the chain started breaking. We had the chain tightened properly but it still broke 3 times and the quad was still making the noise so we put a new chain on and checked the sprockets again. Now the problem is much worse. In an open flat field its fine but if i accelerate over any bumps it makes the noise, and if i accelerate hard where alot of traction is available, like the road or driveway, the quad makes the noise and it feels like the chain is slipping. We've checked the tension in the chain and everything we can think of and we're running out of ideas. Does anyone have any clues for me or does this one have to be fixed costly at the dealer? Thanks for the help![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif[/img][img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-disgusted.gif[/img]

 

if it's not an internal transmission problem, check to see if your swingarm has play in the bushings. the same thing happened to mine but a front sprocket was all that i needed. if you jump it, a chain tensioner would probably be in order.


steve

 

to me it sounds like your swingarm bushings are shot, or you might have a broken swingarm pivot bolt. that has happened to my 96 trail boss. the swingarm is moving, causing the sprockets to get out of alignment and can cause undo stress on the chain and sprockets.

if you jack the quad up, so that the rear tires are off the ground, try moving the whole swingarm setup side to side. if theres any movement, or play, chances are one of the above mentioned is your problem.

X

 

I agree on the swing arm bushings being gone. Happend on a friends trail boss 330...replace the bushings and it was like new!

 

I jacked the quad up and there is about 1/8 inch play side to side with the swingarm, we had looked at the bushings before and they didn't appear to be worn out .... any more ideas?

 

Mine has zero play side to side.

 

When you have it jacked up turn the wheels with it in gear and see how much play there is before the sprocket starts to turn.If the is very much the internal chain is bad.You could also have bad axle bearings cusing this to so while it is up shack everything you can see for play.The swingarm shouldnt have side to side play at all.

 

My 500 scrammy did the same thing and it was the swing arm. The bushings were warn and the shaft bolt on the right side had backed itself outall the way and was being held in by the plastic guard. There should be NO play in the swing arm. That is most likely your probblem.

 

mine made a clucking noise every couple of seconds, and on mine it was the plastic chain guide underneath the swing arm. it had enough play in the bolts to let the chain rub against it. I tightened the bolt and removed the play and my noise went away.

hopefully its simple like this for you.