So I have a 1997 scrambler that makes a single, loud popping noise when you jump it. Here are the symptoms:

On flat ground, it never makes the noise.
Up against a post or solid object full throttle no noise.
We just changed the front, rear sprocket and chain. Yes, they were really bad so we thought that was it!! It doesn't seem to be. We adjusted the tension according to manual.
The only time it makes the noise is if you are on throttle over a jump. It doesn't even have to be that much throttle, even light throttle will make a popping/grinding noise when you land. It will do it EVERY time, and ONLY in this condition!

Overall the quad is in good, low hour shape. I did notice that if I barely push down on the left belt/drive cover it seems like it is hitting the inside pulleys easily. I wouldn't think it should be that easy?

Thoughts?

Thanks!

 

4x4 for what it's worth too..

 

Betcha it's the stress on the internal silent chain causing it to jump teeth when you land. Had a bunch of Trail Blazers and Scramblers do this.May start out only under stress,but as the chain stretch gets more prominent it will do it without having a load on it. Had em brought in before that you couldn't even pull into the shop with out grinding. Could be the cover if it's gotten hot and warped,can rub,make noise.One way to find out is to remove the cover and try it,BUT be very careful with your feet!

 

Was kinda out of it,didn't see that last part about the clutch cover. They were bad also on warping and making noise especially at an idle when the drive clutch was all the way out. Newer covers can solve this,plus you should have a small "L" bracket at the bottom of the inner cover you can move around and see if it helps. You also can just remove the cover,check for any damaged motor mounts and try a small jump again,but be careful with your feet! If it still grinds,then I'd still suspect the internal chain stretch.