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How do you replace rear swing-arm boot on a 2002 Honda foreman 450?

Replacing the rear swing arm boot on a 2002 Honda Foreman 450 ATV involves the following steps:

1. Safety Precautions:

- Ensure that the ATV is turned off and allowed to cool down before beginning any work.

- Wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses.

2. Remove Wheels:

- Loosen the lug nuts on both rear wheels.

- Use a jack to raise the rear end of the ATV off the ground.

- Remove the lug nuts and take off both rear wheels.

3. Remove Muffler/Exhaust:

- Locate the muffler/exhaust on the right side of the ATV.

- Loosen the bolts securing the muffler to the swingarm and exhaust system.

- Carefully remove the muffler and set it aside.

4. Disconnect Brake Caliper:

- Locate the rear brake caliper on the swingarm.

- Remove the cotter pin and then loosen the brake caliper mounting bolts.

- Carefully remove the brake caliper and suspend it with a piece of wire or rope to avoid damaging it.

5. Remove Driveshaft Cover:

- On the right side of the swingarm, there's a rubber driveshaft cover.

- Pry off the cover carefully using a flat-head screwdriver.

6. Remove Driveshaft:

- Take out the bolt from the driveshaft end that connects it to the rear differential.

- Pull out the driveshaft from the swingarm.

7. Remove Old Swingarm Boot:

- Once the driveshaft is out, you'll see the swingarm boot.

- Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the clamps that hold the boot in place.

- Carefully remove the old swingarm boot.

8. Clean and Inspect Swingarm:

- This is an excellent opportunity to clean and inspect the swingarm.

- Look for any cracks or damage and address them if necessary.

9. Install New Swingarm Boot:

- Position the new swingarm boot onto the swingarm.

- Secure it using the clamps, ensuring they are tight.

- Make sure the boot is seated correctly and not twisted.

10. Reinstall Driveshaft:

- Insert the driveshaft back into the swingarm.

- Install and tighten the bolt that connects it to the rear differential.

11. Reinstall Driveshaft Cover:

- Replace the rubber driveshaft cover, ensuring it fits snugly.

12. Reconnect Brake Caliper:

- Reattach the brake caliper to the swingarm and secure it with the mounting bolts.

- Insert and secure the cotter pin.

13. Reinstall Muffler/Exhaust:

- Position the muffler/exhaust and reconnect it to the swingarm and exhaust system.

- Tighten the bolts securely.

14. Reinstall Wheels:

- Place the wheels back onto the ATV and reinstall the lug nuts.

- Lower the ATV and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.

15. Test and Inspect:

- Once everything is reassembled, test the ATV to ensure the rear suspension and brakes are functioning properly.

- Look for any leaks or issues.

16. Clean and Test Ride:

- Clean up any spilled fluids or debris.

- Take the ATV for a test ride to confirm that everything is working smoothly.

Remember, if you're unsure about any step or encounter difficulties, it's advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or refer to the specific service manual for your ATV model.