Note about clutch adjust & oil level... Mine was running & shifting fine, then tried a Honda tech 1/3 turn suggestion, and it wouldn't shift out of 1-2-or 3 unless way off, or off of gas pedal. Went back to 1/4 turn still bad shifting, tried a little less than 1/4 and still bad, back to 1/4 still bad. Was driving me crazy, until I checked my oil dipstick, and I use full synthetic, it was surprisingly 1/3 to 1/2 quart low. Filled it up to upper dipstick level, completely solved the problem. Turns out that with low oil, clutch adjust is way out of whack. After filling it up to proper oil level, checked clutch adjust again, and it was nowhere near 1/4 turn. So now with full oil, did adjust again to 1/4 turn and it is shifting perfect again. Don't know how or why, but low oil level will not allow proper clutch adjustment, thought others should know this. I also learned that with full synthetic, thinner & more slippery, some oil can get past the rings, ever so slowly. I've now learned to check my oil level more often.
I’ve had my 500 just over a month now. After I picked it up, I went directly to camp. Read manual and checked things out for two hours before riding. Wanted to also make sure air filter wasn’t dry but it was in good shape. On my first service I removed spark arrestor plug and coated it with anti-seize paste. I remember the problems I had with my previous atv for not doing so. Great video!
Your the second person to mention coating it with anti-seize so I would say that's a great thing to do! I know I pre-loosened the bolt before filming and it was really in there tight.
Just bought my first Pioneer 500, also my first ever Side by Side and UTV. Awesome video and really cool tips, was wondering what that wrench was for. I'm subscribed to ur channel 😊. Thks for sharing 😊 👍
If I’d never seen this video I would never of known any of this ! Especially the gear shift spanner I seen it there the first time I washed the buggy after a hunting trip! Didn’t have a clue as to what it was for ! Cheers mate
Chandler Miller the best ? Lack of power, no suspension to speak of, uncomfortable seating...yea, what’s not to love ?(note sarcasm) Before you go whining about cvt machines cooking belts...that’s a strawman statement. Unless you’re making big horsepower, turning 32” tires or doing something stupid, belts will last 1000’s of miles.
My first atv was a 1997 Yamaha Big Bear 350. I rode the wheels off that thing with no problems. I then got a 2002 Yamaha Raptor 660 and had no issues with it as well. Then I bought a 2005 Yamaha Kodak 400 and it was my favorite, with no issues either. Then I bought a 2007 Honda 450R atv and the motor locked up in it right after I bought it. I am not hard on my quads, although I was on the old Big Bear, now I take care of them. Now I own a 2017 Yamaha Viking with no issues as well. I will never buy a Honda again, I have heard the issue with my Honda was a well known problem with it, but I was still making payments on it and couldn’t afford at the time to get it tore down and put back together.
The amount of times. I've hit or caught my head on the pioneer 500 and trx 420, 500 spark arrestor plugs, is beyond a joke. It wears thin after a while.
Don't get the 700 disappointed. 3 speed tranny slow, no power gets stuck all the time Get the 1000 and it's about 1000 dollars more and u get 6 years bigger tires . Sits higher. Just a better machine and U get bright lights unlike the 700
great vids, My Pioneer 500 has a new battery but at times the battery will die. I have checked everything and not sure why the battery is draining. Thoughts?
Honda is really yhe only way to go.but i didnt like some things about the p5 so i did buy my first ever yamaha ...a viking 700.i couldn't afford a p7 or p1k.i started on a atc honda 70 3 wheeler (atc) and just sold my brand new Rubicon and everything in between from sport bikes back to 4x4...so i love this channel.i wouldnt mind getting a 50 inche sxs next.so thats why i said the can am...honda NEEDS A SPORT SXS!!!! BAD!.THERE LOSING ALOT OF MONEY...BUT I LIKE UR P1K VIDEOS TOO
I went to three different Honda dealers looking at the pioneer 500 before I bought mine. None of them mentioned the small tube of tools directly underneath the back up shifting tool located beneath the seat. Nor was it mentioned here. Still dig your videos though. Have learned much. Thanks
What year is your P5? Mine has no container of tools under the manual shifter tool. I don’t even think I have a spot where it looks like one should go though I honestly can’t say I paid that much attention. Maybe it’s something they added in later years and that’s why the dealers didn’t realize it was there.
Yep, your right! I completely forgot that that was there...lol. Not much in them though and the quality of the tools is not very good which is the case for the tools that cane with my Wolverine too. I always carry a good set of tools with me on rides so I don’t even give those little kits much thought but it is nice the OEM’s give you a few basic tools.
Thanks much. Just got ours a few months back and just came back from the Pocahontas trail system. That thing is amazing. Now, the seat in this thing gets HOT. I know why, what do you suggest as a heat shield or insulating the seats?
Thanks for your honest review of the front shocks. I agree with your opinions after I installed mine. Have you found any easier ways to mount seats yet without having to cut metal for the base. I will support your channel very soon. And I keep my word. Your videos do help quite a bit.
A few guys on hondasxs.com mounted some without a plate I believe but most do something similar to what I did. Check out the forum and search for Pioneer 500 bucket seat and they should come up.
I am hoping you can help. My battery is dead. I am trying to remove the battery cover and the screw at the top of the box just spins and will not come out. This is the first time opening it since purchased. Any ideas you have to help me would be greatly appreciated.
Happened to me too and happens quite often to a lot of P5’s. There is a nut in the back that is suppose to be captured between two plastic ribs but it always seem to just spin as the plastic ribs are thin and don’t hold it in place one torque is applied. The trick I did was take a flat edge screwdriver and stuck between the spinning bolt and the Plastic and kept pressure on the bolt to keep it from spinning. You can get a bolt of the nut and pinch it fast to the plastic to keep the nut from spinning too.
Thanks for your videos, they are very informative. You mentioned in this video that it's a good idea to seal all electrical connections with grease. What type of grease do you use, I couldn't make out what you said on the video? Also, do you have a video showing how to do this...it would really be appreciated. Thanks
Dielectric grease is what you want. I go over all the connector locations in my how to series on snorkeling and extending the vent lines. Pioneer 500 Snorkeling and Vent Line Extending ruclips.net/p/PLk3TzxQ0ZRwgDAGM5GAp2K4AsGQKcyjgg
@@AppalachianMountainRiders thanks for the information. Today my wife and I went to the Honda dealership and picked up the Pioneer 520. We been driving it for about an hour to break it in. Keep up with the information, it's very helpful.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders wanted to get an idea as to mounting a license plate on the Honda 520. I am trying to stay away from the tailgate as it seems to be a hard plastic. Thank you
Really in a dilemma , still have my P 500 and really like it have never had any problems but I’m thinking of trading it in on a new Honda talon what are your thoughts ? Do you think the Talon will be as reliable? thanks man love your channel
Adam Newman the only thing that has me worried is the Talon burning clutches like the Pioneer 1000. As hard as people ripping on them already it won’t be long till we see if the Talon has the same issue. So far so good however! I would give it a couple months if you can wait that long and see how the clutches hold up.
AppalachianMountainRiders .......thanks that’s kinda what I’m thinking to ! People can say what they want about the pioneer 500 it has been flawless as far as reliability so far !
90% of the people that bad mouth the P5 are judging it on speed alone. Speed is not its strongest trait...lol. But that’s not what it’s made for anyway!
Thanks for the info man. I have a 2017 which has the automatic and manual function which is nice. One thing though that bugs me is when in manual mode it still gears down on its own when i slow down which is a problem on rough terrain since it causes the rear end of the machine and the drivers rear end to take a beating sometimes lol. I wish there was a way to disable that. I want to be the one to down shift it when its in manual. Thanks anyone for any help. And thanks for your videos.
Hummy Hero, I can relate as I have the same machine and have experienced that too. Except my machine does not excerpt the force you are mentioning. I wonder if it's a simple matter of clutch adjustment? I wonder if AppalacianMountainRiders could chime in on this? Gotta say, really like the P500 mechanics and how it is simple and true for longevity.
The way he’s describing it I don’t know if adjusting the clutch would do anything. Sounds more to me that the machine is just down shifting to early and to high in the rpm’s which is causing the machine to lurch. Would have to experience in person to be sure though.
Appalachian riders is correct it is down shifting to early when i slow down. I just dont want it to down shift at all when i have it in manual. I want to shift it like i do my honda foreman. And let it stay in the gear i put it in. Thanks everyone for taking the time to respond to my question.
Hummy Hero, that makes sense to me now. When I am in Manual Mode it does shift down on its own but,,, it only does this when I going very slow for that gear and it is not a harsh downshift at all. If it was happening in the higher RPM’s it would not be functioning the way I would want it either. Good luck on a fix! It would be great to hear what you come up with.
On my very recently purchased Pioneer 500, I am proactively adding an extra battery (Optima dry cell), purchased an isolator switch, additional fuse box, 2 circuit digital voltage meter, plastic battery box, and I am now searching for the space to put the battery and box. It appears the space which I am looking for is under the driver's seat, but the brake lines and junction on the frame and skid plate appear in the way. I have an abundance of electrical items to power (radio, horn, winch, seed spreader, and weed sprayer) and I don't want to drain the starting power of the factory battery while working the P500 without the motor operating. Is there another site more suitable or is there a factory made adapter plate I can purchase to mount the battery box? Suggestions would be appreciated. Additionally, there is a large open area between the inner fender and the hood. I feel there is need for a fender splash guard to keep mud out of the area under the hood and off of the newly installed radio. Is a splash shield available for purchase or do I construct?
I have 7 of these hondas Issue we are having is The fuel Line getting a pin hole leak same spot at first we thought it was sabotage but then after 3 more went out all the pin holes are exact same spot ..about 6 inches from where it comes from the tank under the seat . I'm perplexed there is nothing present that could do this nothing sharp or abrasive and it's a clean hole also not like burned or poked the hole is Clean , Is anyone else having this issue ...oh btw it's a good idea to pick up a few of the sensors to have on hand like the two for shifting and the other air intake
Wondering if you ever replaced a clutch or know about replacement. Had one replaced at a Honda dealer and got it back 10 weeks later. Took it for a spin in the parking lot and it jolts hard enough you could actually get whiplash and it makes a loud clunking noise at the same time. Service person went to manager and reports back that the clutch needs to be broken in. Was told Honda breaks it in before the ship the for sale. Don't know much but believe I'm getting the run-around. Any thoughts on the clutch jerking?
They do need a break in period and will shift hard and loud till then. After around 100 miles give it a clutch adjustment and you’ll be amazed at the difference!
Hey, thought I would comment here because you're good about getting back to people. I get the impression that the 500/520 has basically a Honda Electronic Shift transmission, is that accurate? I see no mention of DCT anyway, but a few RUclipsrs have called it a DCT- I'm not sure that's an accurate statement.
It is NOT a DCT so they are not accurate. A lot of people get that wrong. It’s a electronic controlled 5 speed that has two clutches. One wet clutch, and the clutch that engages to release the clutch pack and shift gears. A DCT is completely different and the Pioneer 1000 and the Talon are the only ones with a DCT. If you google what a DCT is there is a lot of useful explanations on how one works.
Basically the same. Some of the components may be different or work slightly different but overall it’s the same. You can either shift manually or have the machine shift for you in “auto” mode.
Have you done a video that shows how well the Pioneer can climb steep(er) trails? I'm considering one, but have a couple of places I go that have rather steepish trails.
Lots! Check out my ride videos with it especially ones from Hatfield McCoy and rock run. Lots of steep climbs and I went right up on both 27” and 32” tires.
Im going to look the machine over and see if theres a fuse or relay that controls the auto downshift in manual mode. And if that doesnt fix the issue im going to call honda and see if they might tell me anything. My concern is it shifting when i dont need it to on a rough dowhill section then sliding the rear end or breaking something from the sudden stop from the downshift.
My Honda pioneer 500 has been having shifting issues. Where it doesn’t want to go out of the gear it gets stuck in. No matter what paddle I hit (left for neutral or right for upshifting) could it be the angle sensor?
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I did after watching your video didn’t help. Flatlining now to the point where I can even use the manual overdrive for the gears. I used the wrench to try and pop it into neutral and it just had a steady flatline symbol where you gears are on the screen.
I’m not sure about that. I’m not to familiar with the Viking but I know all the Yamaha’s I’ve owned in the past, the spark arrestor was built in to the tip.
Just got a used p500 have you had the issue when you first jump In it that is does not want to up shift through the gears. I run it in low gear for a few min then restart it and does fine. Any ideas?
They will do that if the oil is cold. Mine does. Like you've already discovered running it a bit before shifting will solve the problem as it allows the oil to warm. You shouldn't have to shut it off and restart it. Making sure the clutch is properly adjusted will help too. It's easy to adjust and even just a slight adjustment will make a surprising difference.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I took my time and tried to do a really fine tuned clutch adjust and it worked wonders shifts better than ever cold or hot. Noticed something new though when slow braking going down a steep hill I get a grinding type noise from the rear brakes. I have read it's kinda normal especially for shaft mounted rear brakes but it very annoying sounds horriable any tips on that. Some people say big red pads help? Thanks for replying I enjoy your vids.
Since you know them by heart, I have a question for you. When I brake hard, while at speed, there is a very loud clunking noise coming from the machine. Some says it is normal, is it ?
hello AMR, did some trail ride'n this past weekend round the TN river. mostly wet (~12"-16" deep a couple of times) ) and muddy. my 14 p500 started make'n a soft hum'.n sound coming from battery box, even with motor off. we rode about 1 hour more and load up for home. battery was dead, 2a slow charge, no help. did jump off it, but 0 gears and rough idle. ordered new battery, but confused about for idle, i think its in limp mode. checked all the generals fuel, air, fuses, plug, etc. gonna check the grounds next. will a dead battery cause this issue and while its down what else should i check? help is appreciated!!! btw bought it used, no manual.
A dead battery will definitely cause this and since you said you have checked all the essentials including fuses (relays to I’m guessing?) I would say that’s your problem. When my original batter was going out it acted a bit like this too. My first guess would be that the hum was coming from your relays not getting enough power. Keep me updated once you get a new battery in and while you wait I would pick up some dielectric grease and hit all your connections to be on the safe side.
I bought my 2017 used and need a manual. Seems to be hard to find. None on Ebay or amazon. Mine does not have a glove box either. Did yours come with or was it added?
Glove box was added. It’s a choogbox from one of the members on hondasxs.com. I have a complete install vid of it with more info on how you can get one.
You would want to adjust your clutch a bit stiffer but I can’t think off hand which direction that would be. On my 500 it’s cast right into the block near the adjustment screw with arrows. Not sure if the rancher is the same but I would think it would be since it’s the same power plant.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders Do you have a video showing it? I scanned through yours, so I could have missed it. I gotta see the whole thing in the bed to get a better idea on if it's something I want, or if it takes up too much bed space.
Watch the first vid on my series about snorkeling and extending the vent lines of the P5. I remove the bed, rack, and fenders to get at stuff. That’s probably the best footage of it I have. I can take some pics and email if that don’t help enough. just shoot me an email at appalachianmountainriders@gmail.com
Craig Gyorfi need more info on “stopped working” to answer your question. Would you here a clunk and get a dash line in the display? Did it do nothing at all? Could be anything from needing a simple adjustment to having a bad battery or relay. Please elaborate and don’t be afraid to be very specific
It's now working I went through a lot of frozen puddles today and there's a lot of ice on it maybe it thawed out and started working again .thanks for your reply,help and your videos.
Craig Gyorfi good to hear it’s been working fine. You may have just had a voltage drop from something getting wet. If it does it again do the clutch adjustment which I believe is the same for the 2020’s as what I showed. If that don’t work it’s most likely your battery’s done or the shift relay is bad.
I’ve watched all your videos several times over ! I’ve noticed that you aren’t scared to tear right into it and work on things ! That being said ; I’m trying to find the shift angle sensor to change it out ! Can you get me pointed in the right direction ? A video would be MOST APPRECIATED ! Thanks for all the inspiration ! Cheers , Ron
@@AppalachianMountainRiders are you using synthetic oil 10w40.I switch back from synthetic to standard oil and I'm still using oil.with the catalytic converter on you can't tell if it's burning! Not very happy only has two thousand miles on it.
Decent, but they are lacking for ground clearance which is its biggest hindrance in the mud. It can get high centered pretty quick. Easy fix with some bigger tires. The second thing is it has an open front diff meaning that it’s really only three wheel drive. They still go through the stuff pretty decent and if you are a hardcore muddier you can get the Torq locker to make it true 4wd. I have the Torq locker in mine and have some vids of it in action and it completely changed the capabilities of the machine.
You are a gifted man who knows how to articulate repairs on vehicles.
I thank God for men like you who make honest videos with no cursing 👍🏼.
I have a Honda Pioneer 500 and I am in the middle of know where in Nevada! Thanks so much for all the tips! Great video
Note about clutch adjust & oil level... Mine was running & shifting fine, then tried a Honda tech 1/3 turn suggestion, and it wouldn't shift out of 1-2-or 3 unless way off, or off of gas pedal. Went back to 1/4 turn still bad shifting, tried a little less than 1/4 and still bad, back to 1/4 still bad. Was driving me crazy, until I checked my oil dipstick, and I use full synthetic, it was surprisingly 1/3 to 1/2 quart low. Filled it up to upper dipstick level, completely solved the problem. Turns out that with low oil, clutch adjust is way out of whack. After filling it up to proper oil level, checked clutch adjust again, and it was nowhere near 1/4 turn. So now with full oil, did adjust again to 1/4 turn and it is shifting perfect again. Don't know how or why, but low oil level will not allow proper clutch adjustment, thought others should know this. I also learned that with full synthetic, thinner & more slippery, some oil can get past the rings, ever so slowly. I've now learned to check my oil level more often.
I have watched this video at least 10 times to guide me through the clutch adjustment. Thank you!
I’ve had my 500 just over a month now. After I picked it up, I went directly to camp. Read manual and checked things out for two hours before riding. Wanted to also make sure air filter wasn’t dry but it was in good shape.
On my first service I removed spark arrestor plug and coated it with anti-seize paste. I remember the problems I had with my previous atv for not doing so.
Great video!
Your the second person to mention coating it with anti-seize so I would say that's a great thing to do! I know I pre-loosened the bolt before filming and it was really in there tight.
Thanks for the great tips...I always wondered what I was going to do if my electric shift stoped working...now I know.
I am not a Honda guy but I do like the idea of gears instead of a belt. You made an excellent and very informative video, Keep up the good work.
i just cleaned the throttle body on my 700xx...... made the idle smoother... and quicker response.... i think thats an overlooked item...
Thanks again everyone for taking time to respond to my questions its very appreciated
Just bought my first Pioneer 500, also my first ever Side by Side and UTV. Awesome video and really cool tips, was wondering what that wrench was for. I'm subscribed to ur channel 😊. Thks for sharing 😊 👍
Owned mine for 4 years the thing Is bomb prof great video appreciate it!
Great video. Thanks for taking the time to make it.
Thank you for doin, and letting me join this group. I enjoy being around you and engining.
If I’d never seen this video I would never of known any of this ! Especially the gear shift spanner I seen it there the first time I washed the buggy after a hunting trip! Didn’t have a clue as to what it was for ! Cheers mate
Hondas are just straight up the best in everything
Chandler Miller your right the ridge line is the best truck 😂 😂 😂 😂
Chandler Miller the best ? Lack of power, no suspension to speak of, uncomfortable seating...yea, what’s not to love ?(note sarcasm) Before you go whining about cvt machines cooking belts...that’s a strawman statement. Unless you’re making big horsepower, turning 32” tires or doing something stupid, belts will last 1000’s of miles.
ROTAXD your right but I do think Honda is the best in reliability
My first atv was a 1997 Yamaha Big Bear 350. I rode the wheels off that thing with no problems. I then got a 2002 Yamaha Raptor 660 and had no issues with it as well. Then I bought a 2005 Yamaha Kodak 400 and it was my favorite, with no issues either. Then I bought a 2007 Honda 450R atv and the motor locked up in it right after I bought it. I am not hard on my quads, although I was on the old Big Bear, now I take care of them. Now I own a 2017 Yamaha Viking with no issues as well. I will never buy a Honda again, I have heard the issue with my Honda was a well known problem with it, but I was still making payments on it and couldn’t afford at the time to get it tore down and put back together.
Honda is the Best on Earth
Great video Jason! Thanks for that!
The amount of times. I've hit or caught my head on the pioneer 500 and trx 420, 500 spark arrestor plugs, is beyond a joke. It wears thin after a while.
I fully read the owners manual for my new Honda Rubicon. Right after my first ride.
i love your videos i ain’t even gonna lie bro
I bought the 500 love the size , going to buy a 700soon
Don't get the 700 disappointed. 3 speed tranny slow, no power gets stuck all the time
Get the 1000 and it's about 1000 dollars more and u get 6 years bigger tires . Sits higher. Just a better machine and U get bright lights unlike the 700
Great information! Thank you for sharing.
I enjoy all of your videos on the Pioneer 500. Did you do one on changing the fuel pump ?
Thanks for posting. I read all this stuff in the manual as soon as I got home, but, uh, forgot it all. Yeah.
Hey, we all forget. I had to look again to see how many time you were suppose to rev the engine to blow out the spark arrestor...lol
My Pioneer 500 stared to whistle today when I start the engine. Any idea why or do I need to replace my starter?
great vids, My Pioneer 500 has a new battery but at times the battery will die. I have checked everything and not sure why the battery is draining. Thoughts?
Honda is really yhe only way to go.but i didnt like some things about the p5 so i did buy my first ever yamaha ...a viking 700.i couldn't afford a p7 or p1k.i started on a atc honda 70 3 wheeler (atc) and just sold my brand new Rubicon and everything in between from sport bikes back to 4x4...so i love this channel.i wouldnt mind getting a 50 inche sxs next.so thats why i said the can am...honda NEEDS A SPORT SXS!!!! BAD!.THERE LOSING ALOT OF MONEY...BUT I LIKE UR P1K VIDEOS TOO
Great info love your videos saw you put a truck tool box you think there will be a future video size and installation of that box
How was the riding with the bucket seats conversion?
Starting my installation of the seats shortly. Just purchased tge RZR seats today.
So much better with the RZR seats! A lot comfier and more bolstering helps hold you in the seat better.
I went to three different Honda dealers looking at the pioneer 500 before I bought mine. None of them mentioned the small tube of tools directly underneath the back up shifting tool located beneath the seat. Nor was it mentioned here. Still dig your videos though. Have learned much. Thanks
What year is your P5? Mine has no container of tools under the manual shifter tool. I don’t even think I have a spot where it looks like one should go though I honestly can’t say I paid that much attention. Maybe it’s something they added in later years and that’s why the dealers didn’t realize it was there.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I have a 2018. I'm sure I could see the container on your machine in the video. It's round, black plastic.
At 2:40 look at lower left of screen. Tube O'Tools
Yep, your right! I completely forgot that that was there...lol. Not much in them though and the quality of the tools is not very good which is the case for the tools that cane with my Wolverine too. I always carry a good set of tools with me on rides so I don’t even give those little kits much thought but it is nice the OEM’s give you a few basic tools.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I swear it's the same set of tools that was in my first new Honda, a 125m three wheeler in 1984
Thanks much. Just got ours a few months back and just came back from the Pocahontas trail system. That thing is amazing.
Now, the seat in this thing gets HOT. I know why, what do you suggest as a heat shield or insulating the seats?
Great job on this video!
The spark arrestor trick, put a firecracker inside the tail pipe the Shockwave will loosen the carbon up.
Only need to review it 4-5 times.
Thanks for your honest review of the front shocks. I agree with your opinions after I installed mine. Have you found any easier ways to mount seats yet without having to cut metal for the base. I will support your channel very soon. And I keep my word. Your videos do help quite a bit.
A few guys on hondasxs.com mounted some without a plate I believe but most do something similar to what I did. Check out the forum and search for Pioneer 500 bucket seat and they should come up.
Great tips thanks
I just changed the shift motor. I noticed it has a two second delay before it shifts. Which way do I go increase or decrease
Do you have any recommendations for a full cab encloser for a 2017 Honda 500 and where to purchase ??
I am hoping you can help. My battery is dead. I am trying to remove the battery cover and the screw at the top of the box just spins and will not come out. This is the first time opening it since purchased. Any ideas you have to help me would be greatly appreciated.
Happened to me too and happens quite often to a lot of P5’s. There is a nut in the back that is suppose to be captured between two plastic ribs but it always seem to just spin as the plastic ribs are thin and don’t hold it in place one torque is applied. The trick I did was take a flat edge screwdriver and stuck between the spinning bolt and the Plastic and kept pressure on the bolt to keep it from spinning. You can get a bolt of the nut and pinch it fast to the plastic to keep the nut from spinning too.
Thanks for the review and tips
great video...well done
Thanks for your videos, they are very informative. You mentioned in this video that it's a good idea to seal all electrical connections with grease. What type of grease do you use, I couldn't make out what you said on the video? Also, do you have a video showing how to do this...it would really be appreciated. Thanks
Dielectric grease is what you want. I go over all the connector locations in my how to series on snorkeling and extending the vent lines. Pioneer 500 Snorkeling and Vent Line Extending
ruclips.net/p/PLk3TzxQ0ZRwgDAGM5GAp2K4AsGQKcyjgg
@@AppalachianMountainRiders thanks for the information. Today my wife and I went to the Honda dealership and picked up the Pioneer 520. We been driving it for about an hour to break it in.
Keep up with the information, it's very helpful.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders wanted to get an idea as to mounting a license plate on the Honda 520. I am trying to stay away from the tailgate as it seems to be a hard plastic.
Thank you
Very good information
Really in a dilemma , still have my P 500 and really like it have never had any problems but I’m thinking of trading it in on a new Honda talon what are your thoughts ? Do you think the Talon will be as reliable? thanks man love your channel
Adam Newman the only thing that has me worried is the Talon burning clutches like the Pioneer 1000. As hard as people ripping on them already it won’t be long till we see if the Talon has the same issue. So far so good however! I would give it a couple months if you can wait that long and see how the clutches hold up.
AppalachianMountainRiders .......thanks that’s kinda what I’m thinking to ! People can say what they want about the pioneer 500 it has been flawless as far as reliability so far !
90% of the people that bad mouth the P5 are judging it on speed alone. Speed is not its strongest trait...lol. But that’s not what it’s made for anyway!
Thanks for the info man. I have a 2017 which has the automatic and manual function which is nice. One thing though that bugs me is when in manual mode it still gears down on its own when i slow down which is a problem on rough terrain since it causes the rear end of the machine and the drivers rear end to take a beating sometimes lol. I wish there was a way to disable that. I want to be the one to down shift it when its in manual. Thanks anyone for any help. And thanks for your videos.
Hummy Hero, I can relate as I have the same machine and have experienced that too. Except my machine does not excerpt the force you are mentioning. I wonder if it's a simple matter of clutch adjustment? I wonder if AppalacianMountainRiders could chime in on this? Gotta say, really like the P500 mechanics and how it is simple and true for longevity.
The way he’s describing it I don’t know if adjusting the clutch would do anything. Sounds more to me that the machine is just down shifting to early and to high in the rpm’s which is causing the machine to lurch. Would have to experience in person to be sure though.
Appalachian riders is correct it is down shifting to early when i slow down. I just dont want it to down shift at all when i have it in manual. I want to shift it like i do my honda foreman. And let it stay in the gear i put it in. Thanks everyone for taking the time to respond to my question.
Hummy Hero, that makes sense to me now. When I am in Manual Mode it does shift down on its own but,,, it only does this when I going very slow for that gear and it is not a harsh downshift at all. If it was happening in the higher RPM’s it would not be functioning the way I would want it either. Good luck on a fix! It would be great to hear what you come up with.
My 2018 does the same thing. It jerks you pretty hard when it down shifts.
Does the 500 shift smoother than the 1000 or is it the same?
Good video.Finally got mine this week.I like the looks of your mirror. Where did you get it?
deere3321 rockymountainatvmc.com but I can’t remember which one it was. I think the Honda but not 100% sure on that
On my very recently purchased Pioneer 500, I am proactively adding an extra battery (Optima dry cell), purchased an isolator switch, additional fuse box, 2 circuit digital voltage meter, plastic battery box, and I am now searching for the space to put the battery and box. It appears the space which I am looking for is under the driver's seat, but the brake lines and junction on the frame and skid plate appear in the way. I have an abundance of electrical items to power (radio, horn, winch, seed spreader, and weed sprayer) and I don't want to drain the starting power of the factory battery while working the P500 without the motor operating. Is there another site more suitable or is there a factory made adapter plate I can purchase to mount the battery box? Suggestions would be appreciated.
Additionally, there is a large open area between the inner fender and the hood. I feel there is need for a fender splash guard to keep mud out of the area under the hood and off of the newly installed radio. Is a splash shield available for purchase or do I construct?
Why not just strap it in the box or on the rack behind the seat. We put a 1000cca bolt top semi-truck battery on our sprayer ATV that way.
I have 7 of these hondas
Issue we are having is The fuel Line getting a pin hole leak same spot at first we thought it was sabotage but then after 3 more went out all the pin holes are exact same spot ..about 6 inches from where it comes from the tank under the seat .
I'm perplexed there is nothing present that could do this nothing sharp or abrasive and it's a clean hole also not like burned or poked the hole is Clean , Is anyone else having this issue ...oh btw it's a good idea to pick up a few of the sensors to have on hand like the two for shifting and the other air intake
I have a 2016 pioneer 500 and love it.it goes through everything Harley ever get stuck
If you haven't been stuck then you aren't tested enough or riding in the most challenging terrain. They all can get stuck. All of them
good tips Charlie.. thanks
Wondering if you ever replaced a clutch or know about replacement. Had one replaced at a Honda dealer and got it back 10 weeks later. Took it for a spin in the parking lot and it jolts hard enough you could actually get whiplash and it makes a loud clunking noise at the same time. Service person went to manager and reports back that the clutch needs to be broken in. Was told Honda breaks it in before the ship the for sale. Don't know much but believe I'm getting the run-around. Any thoughts on the clutch jerking?
They do need a break in period and will shift hard and loud till then. After around 100 miles give it a clutch adjustment and you’ll be amazed at the difference!
Any video's on installing accessory wiring harness, turn signal lights, and horn?
Hey, thought I would comment here because you're good about getting back to people. I get the impression that the 500/520 has basically a Honda Electronic Shift transmission, is that accurate? I see no mention of DCT anyway, but a few RUclipsrs have called it a DCT- I'm not sure that's an accurate statement.
It is NOT a DCT so they are not accurate. A lot of people get that wrong. It’s a electronic controlled 5 speed that has two clutches. One wet clutch, and the clutch that engages to release the clutch pack and shift gears. A DCT is completely different and the Pioneer 1000 and the Talon are the only ones with a DCT. If you google what a DCT is there is a lot of useful explanations on how one works.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders What's the difference between the 520/500 transmission and a Honda atv with ES?
Basically the same. Some of the components may be different or work slightly different but overall it’s the same. You can either shift manually or have the machine shift for you in “auto” mode.
Does the engine and transmission share the same oil on a 2015 pioneer 500, when you change engine oil you are changing them both
Yes they do and yes you are
Very useful, thanks mate
My unit is shifting itself out of 5th back to 4th. Have you had experience with this issue?
Have you done a video that shows how well the Pioneer can climb steep(er) trails? I'm considering one, but have a couple of places I go that have rather steepish trails.
Lots! Check out my ride videos with it especially ones from Hatfield McCoy and rock run. Lots of steep climbs and I went right up on both 27” and 32” tires.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I'll look for them.Thanks!
I think your seats are Polaris RZR seats. But you are doing a video of Honda Pioneer 500cc
Im going to look the machine over and see if theres a fuse or relay that controls the auto downshift in manual mode. And if that doesnt fix the issue im going to call honda and see if they might tell me anything. My concern is it shifting when i dont need it to on a rough dowhill section then sliding the rear end or breaking something from the sudden stop from the downshift.
Hummy Hero you ever figure this out
I read the manual on my Pioneer 500 every night before bed. Learned something here, thouigh.
My Honda pioneer 500 has been having shifting issues. Where it doesn’t want to go out of the gear it gets stuck in. No matter what paddle I hit (left for neutral or right for upshifting) could it be the angle sensor?
Have you ever done a clutch adjustment?
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I did after watching your video didn’t help. Flatlining now to the point where I can even use the manual overdrive for the gears. I used the wrench to try and pop it into neutral and it just had a steady flatline symbol where you gears are on the screen.
thanks for making this video
Do you know if the stock pip on the viking the spark arrester would come out like others?ty in advance
I’m not sure about that. I’m not to familiar with the Viking but I know all the Yamaha’s I’ve owned in the past, the spark arrestor was built in to the tip.
that was helpful thank u so much
I would love a T shirt and a decal...I do enjoy ur videos
I’m in the process of revamping my merch line and store so keep an eye out for a merch drop within the next couple months!
I'm a RTFM guy. I like knowing all the features
Just got a used p500 have you had the issue when you first jump In it that is does not want to up shift through the gears. I run it in low gear for a few min then restart it and does fine. Any ideas?
They will do that if the oil is cold. Mine does. Like you've already discovered running it a bit before shifting will solve the problem as it allows the oil to warm. You shouldn't have to shut it off and restart it. Making sure the clutch is properly adjusted will help too. It's easy to adjust and even just a slight adjustment will make a surprising difference.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders I took my time and tried to do a really fine tuned clutch adjust and it worked wonders shifts better than ever cold or hot. Noticed something new though when slow braking going down a steep hill I get a grinding type noise from the rear brakes. I have read it's kinda normal especially for shaft mounted rear brakes but it very annoying sounds horriable any tips on that. Some people say big red pads help?
Thanks for replying I enjoy your vids.
Awesome tips
Since you know them by heart, I have a question for you. When I brake hard, while at speed, there is a very loud clunking noise coming from the machine. Some says it is normal, is it ?
If you’re in auto it could be from down shifting
parking brake light keeps blinking when it is disengage
hello AMR, did some trail ride'n this past weekend round the TN river. mostly wet (~12"-16" deep a couple of times) ) and muddy. my 14 p500 started make'n a soft hum'.n sound coming from battery box, even with motor off. we rode about 1 hour more and load up for home. battery was dead, 2a slow charge, no help. did jump off it, but 0 gears and rough idle. ordered new battery, but confused about for idle, i think its in limp mode. checked all the generals fuel, air, fuses, plug, etc. gonna check the grounds next. will a dead battery cause this issue and while its down what else should i check? help is appreciated!!! btw bought it used, no manual.
A dead battery will definitely cause this and since you said you have checked all the essentials including fuses (relays to I’m guessing?) I would say that’s your problem. When my original batter was going out it acted a bit like this too. My first guess would be that the hum was coming from your relays not getting enough power. Keep me updated once you get a new battery in and while you wait I would pick up some dielectric grease and hit all your connections to be on the safe side.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders thanks for help'n a brother out.. and the tip! will update when battery is installed. subscribed and thumbs up!
Very informative video[s]
I have Honda 1000-5 I'm surprised at how few aftermarket products there are,like spare tire & gas can racks
The pure sport segment is what gets all the attention unfortunately. It’s even worse for the Pioneer 500 and 700!
I know it's not fast lol ... But that's okay that is not what it is meant to do . Does the 1000 have this ? Thanks 👍
I bought my 2017 used and need a manual. Seems to be hard to find. None on Ebay or amazon.
Mine does not have a glove box either. Did yours come with or was it added?
Glove box was added. It’s a choogbox from one of the members on hondasxs.com. I have a complete install vid of it with more info on how you can get one.
How long should you pour oil into the axles after replacing?
Hi, if I want my Honda rancher to shift at higher rpms smoother? Turn it more clockwise or counter clockwise?
You would want to adjust your clutch a bit stiffer but I can’t think off hand which direction that would be. On my 500 it’s cast right into the block near the adjustment screw with arrows. Not sure if the rancher is the same but I would think it would be since it’s the same power plant.
AppalachianMountainRiders ok I'll try that
What's the tool box in the back? I'd love to see more about that! I keep going back and forth on if I should get one or not.
Just a 4’ side mount tool box for a pickup truck. Bolted to the rack with U bolts.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders Do you have a video showing it? I scanned through yours, so I could have missed it. I gotta see the whole thing in the bed to get a better idea on if it's something I want, or if it takes up too much bed space.
Watch the first vid on my series about snorkeling and extending the vent lines of the P5. I remove the bed, rack, and fenders to get at stuff. That’s probably the best footage of it I have. I can take some pics and email if that don’t help enough. just shoot me an email at appalachianmountainriders@gmail.com
Thanks for the info
great video , real usable info , thank you . Honda or Die!
Thanks!
Honda is the Best on Earth !!
When we saw rzr Seats, were you in a rzr or did you somehow fit them in a p500?
I installed them in my Pioneer. I have a video that shows how I did it.
I just got my 520 today after a 7 m wait
Awesome!!
Your videos are excellent, wish I live down the road from ya, you would be a good neighbor to have....
Thanks Jim! I appreciate that!
I agree with u about geared transmission they are tougher. But cvts especially on Yamaha and Suzuki atvs are very dependable and worry free
Oh man that place is so green and beautiful. What state is it?
Pennsylvania!
AppalachianMountainRiders gorgeous. I live in Utah and I love it specially the desert Moab and we have beautiful mountains but is not green like that
How much oil should I pour when replacing the engine?
I just purchased a 2020 pioneer 500 and my second ride the electric shifter stopped working and I got stranded. Does anyone know why?
Craig Gyorfi need more info on “stopped working” to answer your question. Would you here a clunk and get a dash line in the display? Did it do nothing at all? Could be anything from needing a simple adjustment to having a bad battery or relay. Please elaborate and don’t be afraid to be very specific
@@AppalachianMountainRiders hi there was a straight line on the display
It's now working I went through a lot of frozen puddles today and there's a lot of ice on it maybe it thawed out and started working again .thanks for your reply,help and your videos.
Craig Gyorfi good to hear it’s been working fine. You may have just had a voltage drop from something getting wet. If it does it again do the clutch adjustment which I believe is the same for the 2020’s as what I showed. If that don’t work it’s most likely your battery’s done or the shift relay is bad.
@@AppalachianMountainRiders ok thank you very much.
Thank you!!!!!!
Thanks
I do that. I read the owners manual.
Can you do one of these on the pioneer 520?
All these should apply to the 520 as well! When I get my demo from Honda I’ll definitely see if there are any 520 specific ones!
@@AppalachianMountainRiders thanks love the channel
I did read mine. Just like buying my truck.
Ya .. did you view SXSBlog.com them boys are pretty crazy and power hungry ... they loved it and the 104 hp ...
Do you have a video on your storage box rack
I don’t. I put that on before I was making videos. She’s about due for a revamping though.
AppalachianMountainRiders okay thank you hope you video it it looks like a good set up take it easy have a goodnight
I’ve watched all your videos several times over ! I’ve noticed that you aren’t scared to tear right into it and work on things ! That being said ; I’m trying to find the shift angle sensor to change it out ! Can you get me pointed in the right direction ? A video would be MOST APPRECIATED ! Thanks for all the inspiration ! Cheers , Ron
I’ll check in the service manual and get the location for you
Does your pioneer 500 use oil? Mine uses way too much I believe.
Mine doesn’t use oil at all
@@AppalachianMountainRiders are you using synthetic oil 10w40.I switch back from synthetic to standard oil and I'm still using oil.with the catalytic converter on you can't tell if it's burning! Not very happy only has two thousand miles on it.
I use Honda GN4 Standard oil. 10w40 as well. Everything sound fine motor wise? No piston slap or valve tic?
Getting mine in 3 weeks are they good in mud
Decent, but they are lacking for ground clearance which is its biggest hindrance in the mud. It can get high centered pretty quick. Easy fix with some bigger tires.
The second thing is it has an open front diff meaning that it’s really only three wheel drive. They still go through the stuff pretty decent and if you are a hardcore muddier you can get the Torq locker to make it true 4wd.
I have the Torq locker in mine and have some vids of it in action and it completely changed the capabilities of the machine.
Where is the battery??
Behind the rear passenger tire inside a little plastic box you can see. It’s also where all the fuses and relays are
@@AppalachianMountainRiders thank you so much. I have spent a long time looking for it.
I must be the weird guy that literally does read every manual page by page haha