2009 Kawasaki Mule 4010

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2009 Mule™ 4010 4X4

What's new for the 2009 Kawasaki Mule 4010?
May 20, 2008
Jon Crowley, www.utvguide.net

The big news for the 2009 Kawasaki Mule 4010 is Digital Fuel Injection. Face it, old school carburators are on their way out and fule injection is here to stay. We think this is a good thing. Managed by a digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU), its new DFI system compensates for variations in atmospheric pressure, engine and air temperature. This helps make engine starting smoother and more consistent, gives better throttle response and its improved fuel metering helps reduce fuel consumption. The system incorporates an automatic fast idle speed control which activates when the engine is cold, eliminating the need for a manual choke. The system also regulates maximum engine speed, eliminating the need for a mechanical governor.


Also new this year is Electric Power Steering which makes driving over rough terrain or on pavement much easier. The low effort rack-and-pinion steering on the Mule 4010 4x4 is made even easier with a new electric power steering (EPS) system. EPS reduces turning effort by up to 30 percent, especially at low speeds in four-wheel drive, using input from vehicle speed and torque sensors to determine how much assistance is needed from the system’s electric motor.







When a four-wheel-drive vehicle is a must for hauling gear around farms, fields or to remote locations, the new Kawasaki Mule™ 4010 4x4 is the off-road utility vehicle of choice, thanks to its full-size chassis and a powerful engine now equipped with digital fuel injection (DFI). Besides the new DFI system, the Mule 4010 4x4 also features a new electric power steering (EPS) system, selectable four-wheel drive, a fully-automatic transmission, locking rear differential and a tilting cargo bed.

The new 2009 Mule 4010 4x4 is powered by a liquid-cooled 617cc four-stroke V-twin.

The powerful 617cc V-twin engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features both high and low range plus reverse. Power is transmitted through a dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive system, to a dual-mode rear differential that can be locked to maximize traction, or unlocked to improve handling and minimize ground disturbance when making tight turns. Mule 4010 drivers can also engage four-wheel drive for extra traction in difficult conditions.

With the forward/reverse, high/low-range gear lever and the four-wheel drive selector within easy reach on the dash, drivers can focus more attention on negotiating rough or fragile terrain. The coolant temperature warning light is easy to see, and a push-button control activates the headlights. Other standard features include an hour meter, a horn and an air restrictor gauge to indicate when the air filter needs to be cleaned or replaced. The fuse box and oil dipstick are equally convenient, located underneath the seat for quick access.

The rugged styling of the new bodywork on the Mule 4010 4x4 is much like the modern pickup trucks often working in conjunction with this versatile utility vehicle. The panels continue to be the durable, color-molded plastic that helps hide scuffing. Its front hood can be lifted with the pull of a dash-mounted knob and allows access to a now deeper storage space, which has convenient D-rings to help secure cargo. Additionally, two lever latches make opening and closing the tailgate easy. The roomy cab on the Mule is surrounded by the large-diameter steel tube frame structure that meets federal Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS) requirements.

Convenience features on the new Mule 4010 4x4 aren’t just limited to easy-access latches or controls; they also extend to owner-friendly features like the winch-ready tabs located under the front grille, which greatly-simplify the winch mounting process.

The Mule 4010 4x4 chassis includes a ladder-type frame riding on a DeDion type rear leaf-spring suspension, which is designed to carry heavy loads yet provide a smooth ride when the cargo bed is empty. MacPherson struts handle front suspension duties and provide a good balance of comfort and load capacity. Effective stopping power is provided by four hydraulically operated, self-adjusting, sealed drum brakes that are designed to resist contamination from water, mud and other debris. Large 23-inch low-pressure tires provide a comfortable ride, great traction and help minimize impact over a variety of terrain.

The Mule 4010 4x4 utility vehicle can carry 800 pounds in its steel cargo bed and is capable of towing up to 1,200 pounds with an optional draw bar. Other popular accessories include an enclosed cab, cab heater, snow plow, and soft or hard tops. These and many other Authentic Kawasaki Accessories are available through Kawasaki dealers.

More info:
http://www.utvguide.net/kawasaki_mule_4010.htm
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