How to: Honda Rancher Electronic Shift Troubleshooting TRX400FA

This video will show you how to fix the dreaded Honda rancher shifting issues. If your rancher will not shift of of first gear, this is for you. If you changed a ton of parts and it still does not work, this video will show you how to perform the Honda “initial setting procedure” to reset the computer. It also has a guide for troubleshooting the Hondamatic transmission issues.
Here is a link to the service manual: data2.manualslib.com/pdf5/100...
If you appreciate this video, please subscribe and click like! If it helped, please leave a comment. Have fun!

[@westte1417]

dude this flipping saved me from destroying my 4 wheeler. there is plenty of videos on diagnosing the shift angle sensor , but nothing on replacing it and preloading it. i promise you, i let it sit 4 years because i couldn’t figure out what was going on, until i found this video and decided to try it one more time and i finally see the N-D-R again!!!!

[@michaelhawkins8979]

MY HAT IS OFF TO YOU SIR- NOBODY ELSE ON YOU TUBE WAS EVEN CLOSE- I HAD TO REDO MY SENSOR TWICE TO GET IT EXACTLY RIGHT- VERY SMALL TENSION NEEDED ON THE SPRING INSIDE ANGLE SENSOR- THAT SHOULD BE IN THE BOX WHEN THEY ARE SOLD, WHICH IT IS NOT. WHEN I SAW THE "N" I WAS READY TO CELEBRATE. THANK YOU FOR SUCH AN AWESOME AND DETAILED VIDEO- YOU HAVE SAVED MY BIKE AND I AM GRATEFUL

[@RTAlabama]

Thank you Corey for this video - you saved my quad as I was ready to run it off a bluff - with me not on it!!

[@sweetxtea]

Hands down best video on this on the internet! Much appreciated.

[@samcoe469]

Thanks! Filled these directions to install the angle sensor correctly, then step by step to reprogram the ecm. Worked great!

[@bchaveezy]

Good tutorial, I read this process and was surprised to see such a complicated procedure.

[@WilsonsRec]

Brandon Chavez thanks for watching Brandon. Please subscribe if it helped.

[@sonnylaughlin1382]

We're heading to Indianapolis tomorrow to buy one of these with shifter problems. The price is greatly reduced as a result. Your tutorial made up my mind to buy the machine. (My '85 4Trax is about to die) I subscribed!

[@newell2339]

Thanks for the video. Helped me understand what I needed to do. Had an angle sensor code (6), 1st gear only, basically no reverse. Ordered part online; approx $10. Replaced it yesterday (22 Apr 2020). Less than a 1/2 hour job. Notes: 4 bolts that hold on the engine cover and the 2 that hold the sensor assembly to the motor are 5mm. The 2 bolts that hold the plastic sensor to the sensor assembly are 4mm. Use an L shaped allen/hex wrench to loosen the 4mm before removing the entire assembly from the engine. The factory used loctite of some sort on the 4mm bolts and you'll have to put the assembly in a vise to hold it if you don't have those loosened first. Manual says during reassembly the electrical connector should basically be at 12:00 before moving it to 3:00 to spring load it. It's more like a starting position of 10:00. There are 2 o-rings in the procedure; one larger one that seals the sensor to the sensor assembly (my new part came with this o-ring) and a small on on the inside end that seals the assembly around the shift shaft (no replacement came, original was in great shape & reused) Can't torque to spec's during reassembly using L wrench method, so use the approved German Geuten Toight method. I also did not use loctite even though it was called for in the manual. I did NOT need to do the "initial setting procedure", even though called for in the manual. ECU indicates properly and the machine shifts properly in both auto, ESP, 2WD, 4WD, and reverse plus all combos of those. That was a HUGE relief to not have to go through that tedious and time consuming procedure. Thanks again Corey for pointing us all in the right direction with your video. Most appreciated.

[@justinschafer118]

What year and model quad was this on?

[@newell2339]

@@justinschafer118 2005 TRX400FA

[@jjvinzantvinzant2770]

Thank buddy you helped me get this ride working great again, thank you for doing theses troubleshooting videos cause without it I couldn’t have repaired this problem, thank you keep it going.

[@schylerelkins6057]

Thank you for this video. Replaced my angle sensor today and followed this video. Worked first time.

[@matttch1]

Dude, you are the best. Worked like a charm

[@richardcannon262]

Hey man, I really appreciate the service manual PDF.

[@swiftmp]

Attempted to change my angle sensor and was getting error code 6. Spent hours looking for info on forums for advice. Found your video and followed it from start to finish. My first mistake was to simply fit the angle sensor and not remove the mounting plate with it, so I couldn't clock the spigot correctly. But after watching your video I've done it correctly reset the computer and now have got my gears back. Thank you.

[@daltonwright1451]

Ca you help me I can’t get pass first step the n won’t show

[@bensonraymond]

Same thing I did, fixed it after watching this video

[@larrygross745]

Your video was a life saver.thanks a lot.my baby back to new again

[@joedman64]

Saved my a$$. Great video. Sure miss my simple trx300’s.

[@nobodypersonsomeone]

Thanks for the video mate. Mine is working nicely now, had to replace the shift motor as well in my case.

[@joeb213]

Thanks Corey Wilson,,,,worked perfectly. I did subscribed.

[@phillipswinyer2312]

Angle sensor video was great thanks for being so helpful.

[@woodsrider21]

Hello thanks for your time and how to fix the rancher 400 shifting you video help me fix my rancher thanks again for the info

[@mikeludwar]

Thanks Corey. Your a gem.

[@kevinmorris2154]

Jus done this to my 05 rancher worked perfectly ! Thanks so much!

[@tysonmeans4818]

Thanks A MILLION brother 🙏 🙌

[@MoBetterGroup]

Yo, Yo, great video, I'm going to be a copycat, I'm going to try and help you spread the word. All connection under the hood had water shuck them dry and dried with heat wrap gun. Saving bucks is key and I saved them $$$$, because this video save me a trip to the nearest dealer 60 miles away. Thank You.

[@briantorrez3955]

Thank you sir. I appreciate the info!

[@williamsjasonw]

Thanks so much man!

[@wvsw41]

Thank you great video

[@edh8372]

Great tutorial

[@nelsoncrader3004]

Hello . How are u. I watched ur video on the 06 honda and it helped me understand more about it but I have a question if its possible. My 4wheeler is blinking esp on the screen 4 times not 6 but in auto it will go in drive but won't shift and rev.it spite and sputters . And it won't even show are shift when its I electric shift. And advice

[@unnsteinnbirgisson7693]

Thanks for the video

[@BobbyV22]

Great video

[@chadchapman77]

Awesome video man

[@joexsimp]

Had the same problem , mine was the position sensors . Anyway wanted to share a little tip for your screen . I sanded from 320 400 600 1000 1500 2000 and a quick buff with a wool pad and it looks fresh out of the factory. Don’t do the headlight repair hack people say just buy paper and keep it wet after 420 grit

[@suggs144]

Thanks a lot man!

[@TheDarkMike001]

Awesome video! Do you remember the angle sensor part #? I phoned two dealers and got 2 different #s: 38800-HR3-A21 or 38800-HN2-005. Thanks for your help man!

[@ThomasDaniel-gc8fc]

Starting at 4:10 or so.......that right there is video gold my friend. That Honda manual should note that you MUST also remove the Motor as well and not just the Angle Sensor itself so that you can 'spring load' it when reinstalling. Not knowing that(coupled with my impatience and stupidity) has resulted in me being the proud owner of a spare ECM. I read that manual so much I have it memorized. The last penny I was going to spend was going to be a new Control Motor. Decided to have one more look online before I did that. If not for this video, somebody would have gotten quite a deal on a pristine 2005 TRX400FA with approx. 250hrs and 1100 miles. Anyway, video gold.

[@DAnbEaU969]

Are you meaning the control motor must be removed before spring loading the Angle sensor?

[@ThomasDaniel-gc8fc]

@@DAnbEaU969 No sorry I wasn't clear. I meant that you have to remove the piece that the angle sensor is bolted to as well(the part that is bolted to the engine). I was only removing the angle sensor(plastic part) and re-installing. The 'mount plate'(metal piece) needs to be removed, then install the new angle sensor to that plate, then re-install the 2 pieces as an assembly to achieve the 'spring loading'

[@olzballz9076]

Hey I have a code 5 I think it’s the same scenario, my shift motor was kinked up so I took a screw driver to it and then it turned smoothly, I got swamped right before I was getting code 5, website said angle sensor could break if exposed to water (it was definitely exposed to water) so I was wondering if installing a new angle sensor system would be the right choice , it’s already ordered

[@3gtoothmkr]

Thanks this worked perfect!

[@skipperskipper2936]

How do I get that shop manual? I have 2013 rancher AT. 420. I also have foreman Rubicon500 deluxe M7. Manual shift. I need to change shift lever from foot to hand control.

[@3gtoothmkr]

Also does the 05 Honda rancher trx40fa has a clutch that drives the hydromatic

[@eddienavarro8126]

Does this work for the 4x4 not turning on? Also know where I can get a piston rebuild kit for this model, are the Japanese nakomura ones any good?

[@joemontgomery9420]

motor is not making any noise

[@tristen8914]

What would 2 solid hashes mean on the display not blinking ?

[@royallplatnum]

Is the procedure the same for the 07 honda rancher 420? I can't find a vedio that shows how.

[@TheLifeOfSydG]

what if your not getting any flashes? its just a solid black line? working on a rancher trx420fa

[@KedneyContreras-cw5pt]

I did that on the past I just remembered with this vid

[@raymondlapre2288]

Do you have the trouble codes and procedure to troubleshoot 2007 Honda Foreman 500 TRX500FE shifting issues? Thanks.

[@philc4810]

I have an Australian Honda TRX 450 2000 model semi-auto shift. Are these instructions the same for my machine. Also my instrument cluster is nearly illegible. How do i fix that?

[@raymondlapre2288]

Do you have the trouble codes and procedure to trouble shoot Honda Foreman 500 TRX500FE shifting issues? Thanks.

[@CarlDaugherty-x1i]

Mine still breaks up going in reverse call John changed everything I can change except for the ECM have any suggestions

[@biddeeadventureskeys9547]

My o5 honda rubicon esp acts up sometimes stays in automatic then u drive it it blinks and sometimes wont shift think i need to replace the esp mode slector?

[@skipperskipper2936]

I am flustrsted at you. I want my stupid manual shift changed to electronic shift. Electric shift is great.

[@WISCOFISHINGANDOUTDOORS]

What should I do if my manual shift knobs won't ho into neutral and I have zero codes?

[@skipperskipper2936]

Clearance from lever to top is ok for a shift rod. There is an empty ""pocket"" where your shifter knob is. I want to use it.

[@shawnmcclure7282]

want to use what

[@jonathanhooker5102]

My 4 wheeler is flashing 12 times wich is the ecm motor circuit I replaced it but do not help anything it is still flashing the 2 tic marks 12 times any help I’m ready to ride

[@ligmaballsfhvde1873]

Do thank you so much

[@CbrF4i600cc]

Can a broken diff cause shifter to stop working and atv not to start (stuck in 1st gear)

[@dylanbraucks122]

I didn’t take the footwell off or drilled any holes. Work harder not smarter.

[@mattioder]

I have a 2005 rancher 400 and I was able to just change the sensor as well as long as the sensor got preloaded on the spring it started up and ran fine

[@mattioder]

Update yes I ended up having to do this whole computer reprogramming it was really quite simple following the instructions thanks for the help

[@hunterfreeman7768]

Mine has got 3 flashes which is code three can somebody please help me fix this problem

[@michaelsnapp7023]

Is there a time frame this needs to be completed in?

[@skipperskipper2936]

Why Because I must reach down with my hand to shifter leaver. ( handicapped leg muscles)

[@francineganmor9952]

Great vid. I thought these were "Automatic" Therefore keep it out of ESP and ride?

[@coltonlynn2825]

Ya it’s both just take it out of esp then you’ll be in automatic

[@MrBrofy]

Hey great video, I’ve swapped out the angle sensor for a new one, I was getting the code6. I’m confident I installed the new one correctly but now I’m getting a code12 I’m stumped any suggestions would be welcomed

[@Pimpchimpn]

Did you ever fix that code 12 bc now I'm getting one. If you could help me out that would be amazing!!

[@brysonmynatt]

That’s a bad ecu.

[@gabrielalvarez9570]

Did you ever have the same problem come back ? i heard theres a bypass system for shifting problems

[@WilsonsRec]

Gabriel Alvarez no, never came back. There is a way to manually shift them in an emergency on some but not all Honda models. There is a way to use a wrench I believe next to the shift motor. I have never done it though.

[@daftnord4957]

what a crazy procedure. i wonder, does this happen where it's stuck in 1st gear and reverse it barely runs, when the tps sensor is unbolted? i'm working on a junker and i don't see how the sensor is supposed to mount, it doesn't fit flush on the carb, maybe it supposed to have spacers? anyway, i hope i can get that installed and not have to do all this procedure and replace the angle sensor, caues my LCD is completely burnt out from sun lol

[@daftnord4957]

Got my tps mounted up and everything works. Only problem now is it only goes about 26mph in both shift modes Engine revs no problem, just doesn't seem to be getting to the highest gear range, even though ESP shows 5 speed

[@carlospastor93]

Where do i get the manual in spanish????

[@dougfeddersen7374]

Corey I’m getting a code 4 what do I need to do? I just replaced the carburetor on my 04 Honda.

[@babydollsmith2900]

Hey did you find out your problem

[@johnwalters7415]

Where did you get the paperwork

[@chrisdotson7761]

Where could I buy the plate that attaches to the motor behind the shift sensor? Thanks

[@WilsonsRec]

Chris Dotson eBay is likely the best place to find a used one

[@codyhill60suzuki96]

this the same procedure after replacing throttle position sensor as well

[@400.bubba69]

When I do up down up the motor not making noise what do I do

[@jjvinzantvinzant2770]

What if after you do the up down and pushing throttle while display is blinking but the shift motor makes no noise, it’s brand new

[@allentylerbrandon6515]

That’s the issue i had and about 20 mins after i was stuck in 1st gear again.

[@samuelsmith8576]

Is a trx500 the same way

[@davidkelly5388]

My ESP flashes 4 times do you know why ?

[@hondaatc1987]

Where the manual page for code 3?

[@williammane4704]

Hey bro I’m from New Zealand my dash isn’t working on my rancher

[@johnhernandez3256]

What if screen is completely out. Am I SOL?

[@mattchilders5638]

Where can I download the manual you was using.

[@WilsonsRec]

Please subscribe data2.manualslib.com/pdf5/100/9993/999238-honda/trx400fa.pdf?6d0e6f19dd3d1d2157efe860081eeaaa

[@ralphcinicola3469]

Ok replaced the sensor did it right and still nothing

[@trentonmccormick3891]

Has anyone done a top end rebuild on a 04 trx400fa I’m looking to buy one just don’t know which one to go with

[@sowvoutdoors]

Looking for one as well lol.

[@stetsonou]

@@sowvoutdoors just did mine with ghdiscountatvsupply. That’s the best way so you can keep factory parts and professional bore

[@WilsonsRec]

Here is a link to the service Manual data2.manualslib.com/pdf5/100/9993/999238-honda/trx400fa.pdf?6d0e6f19dd3d1d2157efe860081eeaaa

[@lauracallen7428]

Hey so I just put in a new angle sensor and now I have to reset the computer and go through that procedure but when I do the up down up and throttle Open close it doesn’t turn to a blinking N and I can hear The sensor adjuster making adjustments but it will turn to blinking -any ideas why it would not be blinking N am I missing anything?

[@jonathanhooker5102]

Hey mine is doing the same think please help me out

[@williamsjasonw]

7:05 reset start

[@davidthurmond2466]

Mine will not shift out of first either

[@raelynncornett6932]

Mine won’t even show 1, D or flash.

[@TheSaskachewan1]

wow. Do you have to hold your mouth a certain way. lol Mine grinds bad when trying to get it into forward and grinds so bad that it will not get int reverse. Maybe not related to this video but you seem like knowledgeable man that could at least point me in the rite direction.

[@karl2941]

Clutch weights and springs needing replaced . Went through this with one I bought not running .

[@CarlDaugherty-x1i]

Mine still acts weird in reverse

[@davidthurmond2466]

I may be my wrong I took it off and didn't do that

[@davidthurmond2466]

Mine blinks 6 times

[@williamsjasonw]

5:00 Sensor

[@THATDUDEMIKEY]

Could u email me those instructions

[@davidthurmond2466]

Only thing mine shows is the esp when it comes on

[@Martin77757]

Mine too

[@cliosport24]

Hello, great video. I have a problem on a 2008 trx250 fourtrax ES. When the display indicator shows N, the transmission is in reverse. No way I have R on the screen. When the display shows 1, the transmission is in neutral. Do you have a solution for that problem. Thank you

[@williammane4704]

Mine suck in 1st gear. And runs like shit in reverse

[@karl2941]

Clutch weights worn out !

[@pedroluis7664]

Hola si alguien tiene éste problema en España yo soi de Madrid i lo e conseguido solucionar me prestó para ayudar a quien lo necesite es una locura este sistema de reparación

[@gdubya764]

I get to 1:25 and the video wont play any further.

[@WilsonsRec]

G Dubya the problem is on your end, sorry

[@shawnmcclure7282]

I thought he said troubleshart 😅🤣

[@jeremybowmaster9785]

come and do mine for me lol

[@jeremybowmaster9785]

i have the same problem

[@laa0fa502]

" Hondas are so reliable" until they aren't.

[@jtmartin8445]

After dealing with this headache I'll never turn another wrench on these junk ass systems Honda put on these bikes. They ought to scrap every electric shift honda in existence because they're garbage and everyone has problems with them and half the time the dealers can't even fix them. Garbage systems. Go get a foot shift honda problem solved....