Honda Rubicon 500: Hondamatic shifting issues.

[@farmking5088]

I still have and use my Honda Rubicon for farm work, bought it new in 2001 its been a great machine for me. I put a warn 424 on it right after i got it and it made a world of difference being able to shift in and out of 4x4. Love the smoothness and low range of the Hondamatic! Great video keep up the great work!

[@rockspowersports]

That’s great to hear your still using yours. I have one that has the warm 424 kit on it I’m planning to use whenever I rebuild one of these.

[@Buzzy1960]

@@rockspowersports What is the warm 424 kit?

[@outbackcountry512]

Been doing work on my" New to Me " 2002 Honda Rubicon 500 , love the bike , so far replaced all the brakes including front brake cylinders , wheel bearing all wheel seals , new carb , gas gauge both rear hubs as bearings in the back were toast and started scoring the wheel hubs . Also done the front A - Arms bushings , swapped out for newer tires as the older ones were getting low but not worn out totally . It's my first bike in 30 yrs and your video gave me better understanding of mine . Thanks for posting and you have a new subscriber !

[@off-roadprojectsandfun6868]

By far the best explanation of the electronics and driving technique of the quad!

[@jakepschirrer9150]

Thanks a lot, man! My '02 Rubicon was struggling. I replaced the angle sensor, but I hadn't twisted like you explained. Runs great now! No one around here works on old Hondas.

[@roblobe9224]

Hi, what a great video. Excellent information. I have a 2002 Rubicon 500 that was my Dad's before he passed away 3yrs ago. It was having issues and he never was able to finish getting it to run properly before he passed. Ordinarily we would fix things herself but figured this one might be over our heads Even though he was an automotive technician his entire life this was a little different . A local shop told me it wasn't worth even looking and they wouldn't even service it. I took it to another shop that had a good reputation. They drained the fuel system, rebuilt the carburetor, replaced the angle sensor, throttle position sensor, and CPU. I git it home and unloaded it and realized it was doing the same thing, it was acting very similar to your situation with the rough running and stalling and not shifting, BUT what I found very confusing is that if you keep it in D1 it runs perfect it's only when you try to use D2 or ESP. it's really driving me nuts trying to troubleshoot because I just don't understand why it runs so perfectly in D1??? I've tried to Google but I don't see anyone else with this particular issue? If you have any input it would be greatly appreciated. I really want a get it going more for sentimental memory. Thank you 😁

[@silvergrizzly316]

Rob, have you tried the electric shift motor? Or did you resolve your issue.

[@SL40cal]

Had same issue. Changed angle sensor still did it code 6 ended up being electric shift motor. You actually helped me!

[@rockspowersports]

Glad it helped you out.

[@juliandeluna9484]

Where did you buy it from I can’t find it

[@Jxgg11]

Don’t stop making these videos man, I binge watch all ur videos keep up the good work 👍

[@rockspowersports]

Thanks, I really appreciate that!

[@wadegriffith4134]

Thanks for the video. It saved my ass. I replaced the angle sensor and shift motr because I had working spares, but still had codes. But I failed to preload the angle sensor. So thanks a bunch.

[@rockspowersports]

Glad it helped you out!

[@jeffcox3544]

Love the video Very informative Well made Keep up the good work

[@claudew5582]

Informative video, I would put the vent tube on the gas cap to avoid water getting in the gas. Cheers

[@shadow7796]

Keeping the oil changed in those is everything for the life of that hondamatic. I have the exact same machine, just a different color. I'm currently putting a new top end on mine. It has 6400 miles on it, and the timing chain is so stretched out that the tensioner isn't able to keep the chain tight. Since the head has to come off to replace it, I'm going ahead and replacing the rest of the wearable parts as well. I've researched, bought and studied manuals, and learned everything a person possibly can about the 01 to 04 models. One of the biggest tips to keeping the electronics working properly is to use dielectric grease in all the connectors on the machine to keep out moisture. From everything I've seen, people have a lot of problems out of the cheaper Chinese parts and especially electronic replacement parts (if not honda,Sensortech is a decent brand shift sensor). Great video, too. I just subscribed.

[@rockspowersports]

Yeah, I’ve seen some high mileage Honda rubicon’s still going and some low mileage ones broke down. It’s all in the maintenance like you said. I would certainly throw a new timing chain tensioner in yours if your changing everything else out.

[@derekbelcher6885]

Have a question I've replaced all my sensors and my mph stays a 0 it will shift in to 2 gear then goes in to limp mode like his did but if I put it in esp gear shift perfect as long as I do t go over a sermon speed if I do it goes in limp mode again have to turn it off and back on could it be shift motor display or ecm I changed the speed sensor 2 the one on the back side of the motor and angle sensor and yes I preloaded it as well just wondering

[@derekbelcher6885]

2004 honda Rubicon or 3

[@motofarmmx2430]

This is a really good informative video Rock! I never knew about the codes or resets or fixes. This reminded me I actually did get a free atv too a yellow one of these I would service for a guy. It did the same thing and I was told I just need the drive mode switch. I changed it out and it fixed it for a minute then it was back to flashing. Still drove the shit out of it like that. Ended up selling it. These things scare me with the problems. One listed by me now with a bad transmission.

[@rockspowersports]

I’ve had a few of these Rubicons and still do. There is a lot going on with the transmissions and very expensive to fix. But hey your free one was a good deal!

[@rcagoodtimes4576]

I use to make some helpful videos like this. I do have to say you did a real good job making this video. I never do but i actaully watched the whole thing and not skipped thorugh, keep it up man

[@rockspowersports]

Glad to hear it! Thank you!

[@nickberlew1463]

Such a great video. Learned a lot! My same rubicon will work in DS1 and DS2 mode but my ESP mode will not come on the screen when I select it. I’ve replaced the angle sensor but not sure what to try next. I ordered the actual switch. Hoping that might work!

[@jasonhalcomb308]

thanks for the info you saved me a big headache ,you wouldnt happend sell and send parts if not still thanks for the info great video

[@rockspowersports]

I do sell some used parts what are you looking for?

[@jasonhalcomb308]

a ecm

[@jasonhalcomb308]

@@rockspowersports

[@Buzzy1960]

I have never seen a mechanic work in the rain as well as he does😂 I`m subscribed now and I have a 2002.

[@rockspowersports]

Rain/snow/sun doesn’t matter haha.. Thanks for subscribing!

[@Buzzy1960]

@@rockspowersports You are very welcome. I have a 2002 4x4 Hondamatic foreman Rubicon I bought in Nov. 2019. I use it for hauling firewood and garden work only. I`m hearing the intake/exhaust valves making a ticking noise the last few months now and I have been watching a lot of videos to learn how to do it myself. I bought a Clymer Honda TRX500 Rubicon: 2001- 2004 Maintenance etc. manual after I got it.

[@tomdombrovski432]

Very well explained interesting machine for sure

[@Jessie_james1985]

I bought my old 2007 Honda foreman Rubicon 500 and I guess the angle sensor was bad but I didn't know until I took it for a good trip and then it just died on me did alot of KZbin research came to angle sensor I think they put new one on but didn't do the reset, so I put new one on and also put high heat silicone all over it to protect it from exhaust heat and water (heard the heat ruins the sensor) that was 5000kms ago I never had an issue with atv after that been stored outside as well last 2 yrs in Newfoundland starts with the primer no issue no matter the storms

[@gifff19]

Awesome video!! So helpful!

[@Backwoodsboy37]

Any idea where I can buy a new/used ECM? I’ve looked everywhere I can think and I cannot find one in stock. I’m having the exact issue with my new to me 01 TRX500FA. Any information would help. I’ve got the rest of the parts, but I can’t find the elusive ECM. Thank you.

[@matthewheld1292]

This is why i would buy a honda with a foot shifter instead and new honda trxs still come with base foot shifter as an option, dct and hondamatics are too problematic, i don’t care what all the super honda fanboys have to say, they are just in denial, i don’t even hate hondas either, i love the old fourtrax from the 90s as well as the atc, as i said i like their newer stuff as long as it is optioned with an old school foot shifter only

[@hunterbennett4512]

I have a hondamatic 500 but I use my push button most of the time the transmission ant reliable enough to the the fully automatic

[@racer3827]

I replaced the angle sensor in my 2001 rubicon today cause I got a code 5. Did the reset steps. Heard the shift motor turn but still can't get it to stop blinking. Sometimes, it blinks right away, and sometimes I have to start driving, and then it will start blinking. Any tips or ideas? Thanks

[@d.l.horton2093]

It's the sensor on the side. They get water logged. Let's see if I am right.

[@dwmorris4651]

I’ve got a Honda foreman rubicon 500 I’ve replaced the angle sensor ecm and shift motor and replaced all the fluids but it’s still stuck in a high gear. Also the dash is busted will that mess it up? I also don’t know how to adjust the tps and tips?

[@montgomeryburns7801]

I’m thinking oil chain because you can hear something that sounds like a loose chain in there where it’s located and timing chain is new but mine goes in gear on the dnr shifter on the left when it’s not running but when it’s running you can put it in d and it pulls fine and all but you can’t drop back into N unless you shut it off it’s like it’s bound up. Any ideas?

[@ramonburgos6351]

Can you do a video on how to change the main headlight on this beast? I have a 2002 and can't figure it out for the life of me!

[@PeterSchell-l6y]

i did just what you did and still the same what would it be the transmission thank

[@bradygriffin6776]

Also how much are those parts for the transmission? Where can i order the part?

[@jasonhalcomb308]

Thanks!

[@rockspowersports]

Thank you so much!

[@jasonhalcomb308]

@@rockspowersports

[@jasonhalcomb308]

i need the the wuole speeomeoter sreen and ecm for a honda 500 rubicon

[@nickenglish8686]

Mine has same issue like it is in a limp mode, but the display doesn't work to see error code. Could the ECM cause both the limp mode and the display not working? Thanks for the video.

[@bradygriffin6776]

What state ate you in? This is my exact problem.

[@jaymillenbach400]

Where is the best place to buy the angle sensors?,

[@grndiesel]

I wonder if the hydraulic transmission results in less fuel economy compared to gear driven?

[@rockspowersports]

I would guess it’s probably not as fuel efficient as gear driven. Due to the extra weight and the design.

[@grndiesel]

@@rockspowersports That's what I would think too. But I don't know if any comparisons have been documented in this case.

[@thatcraftsmankid]

Hey man i watch your videos a lot and i need some tips.I got a 220 bayou and i got some problems with it.First my battery always seems to be drained and i can use my electric starter and i replaced it but it seems like the button doesn’t work anymore also my shifter feels floppy.Any tips??

[@calvinfouts4887]

Mines seems to be stuck in the esp I can hear it go into gears when I switch it but it’s like it is stuck in 5th an I’m not sure what needs replaced lol

[@paulnorthcott1636]

Mine changes real slow, gotta rev her up, no codes showing on the dash, any ideas on what the problem could be? Thanks in advance

[@ericemery6138]

how do you adjust the TPS sensor?

[@PederBendikMøll]

At 1.02 when turning off the engine there is some kind of noise like some part are just spinning for a second longer. Is this normal?. Just rebuild a TRX500FA 2004 that I bough more or less pieces. Have the same noise adn is wondering if it is normal, or something is wrong. Got rid of the initial Hondamatic fault code when realizing that i first overlooked the pretensioning of the angle sensor😎. Not many of these here in Norway.

[@theroman21]

I have a question for anyone and everyone who might be kind enough to answer it for me. I have a 2002 TRX 500 and the speedometer display quit working. I purchased a new one on ebay. When I went to install it I found that the old display has two connectors on the wiring harness, a 14pin and a 3 pin connector. The new display is identical to the old display except that the wiring harness only has a single 14pin connector. What is the small connector for and do i need it or is there a different model of display that comes with two connectors?

[@wolfhound557]

There is a electric shift sencer on the engine and if it's crap she won't shit or it is the bottons on the handlebars

[@BrianSkrzypczak]

Do you have a speedometer for a 2002 rubicon 500?

[@rockspowersports]

I do not have an extra one right now.

[@travissharp3852]

Where does a guy start when he’s having these same exact shift issues but no working screen to give me codes?

[@TonsorialVirtuoso09]

I watched the video but am still a bit uncertain as to what you determined to be the problem. Was it the angle sensor or the ECM that was bad? I have this problem: I once had it repaired at a dealership and the problem has come back. My vehicle was in an accident and I suspect that maybe this may contribute to the re-occurrence of the issue. Alternatively, I installed a winch and a plow to this four wheeler and perhaps my wiring configuration or some installation defect is shorting out the ECM. Any useful feedback would be appreciated. Thanks! -John

[@meldog88gaming]

What you ended up doing

[@TonsorialVirtuoso09]

@@meldog88gaming Nothing, just don't have the finances or time to invest in the four-wheeler right now. Wanna buy it for parts?

[@Davidtorresm]

Hi, my Rubi 04 it also drowned in a river last year, and it starts and everything is normal, the idle is good, my screen shows the D1, D2 and ESP gear position, although sometimes it flashes and then stabilizes again, but when I change gear position N to D or R it simply dies and turns off even without touching the accelerator, now that when I touch it it dies faster, I have already changed the angle sensor, carburetor, I drained and cleaned the fuel tank, I changed the fuel valve, I have changed the oil for a Honda one, I changed my rectifier, coil, spark plug, battery, I am tired, I simply have not found the solution since May of last year, I am really desperate for this

[@shawnfuller1298]

I really need help with an 06 Honda Rancher 400 AT 4WD. Code says angle sensor. I’ve changed shift motor, multiple angle sensors, gear position sensors F, R, and N, ECM, temp sensor, a wire harness. Indicates gear at startup but once moving, it flashes code and won’t shift out of first. Any ideas before I spend $1700 for a hondamatic unit?

[@meldog88gaming]

What you ended up doing ?

[@leonardomeraz2208]

Can u help me whit my rubicon 500 2009 i have the problem that not shifting and fail in reverse

[@johnbobb1835]

I just bought a Honda Rubicon and I believe it needs a Hondamatic, any interest in selling one?

[@rockspowersports]

Out of all the rubicon’s I have, I only have 1 good Hondamatic and I’m holding onto it.

[@billybrown1913]

I just bought 2004 honda rubicon i need a speed omater sun damage cant read screen at all i called power sport nation didnt have one mine got shifting issues too

[@Left2Lobster2020]

Anyone know how service the Hondamatic?

[@601_hondas]

Can u do a YT vid of how it drives and handles mud and stuff like that

[@andrewinsinga2993]

Have you ever rebuilt a rubicon transmission?

[@rockspowersports]

I have replaced the hondamatic unit with another one. I haven’t rebuilt the Hondamatic as they are non serviceable and I can’t get repair parts for them.

[@backspace4093]

Don’t those use a swatch plates for shifting.

[@rockspowersports]

Yes they do.

[@johnnugent6516]

Arkansas Wavin

[@livethecrazylife5779]

I can’t get mine out of low gear ? And ideas please

[@Martyvison]

This is exactly what mines doing rock lol

[@bloodknight2099]

Mine is the same also. Won't shift. Won't change modes and sputters in reverse.