Info and photos by Kawasaki Motor Corp.
Diesel power, Mule ruggedness and power steering smoothness with a bold new look
Already a proven performer with its reliable and robust diesel engine, automatic transmission, tilting cargo bed, and selectable four-wheel drive, the Kawasaki Mule™ 4010 4x4 Diesel utility vehicle now mates its muscular yet agile workhorse capabilities with an all-new rugged appearance. The truck-like look of this off-road performer belies the ease of handling made possible by its electric power steering (EPS). The EPS offers a more controlled ride by reducing steering effort at low speeds and harnessing its electric motor’s inertia to dampen much of the bump steer and kickback caused by impacts to the wheel. Electrically driven, the motor is controlled by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that uses input from a vehicle speed sensor and torque sensor to determine the amount of assistance provided by the system. This system works immediately after the engine is started, yet doesn’t create a power drain on the engine. The new bodywork on the Mule 4010 4x4 Diesel utility vehicle is similar in style to many modern pick-up trucks that are often working alongside the Mule. The body panels are durable, color-molded plastic that helps hide scuffing. The front hood of the Mule 4010 Diesel can be lifted with the pull of a dash-mounted knob to reveal a now deeper storage space, which also has convenient D-rings to secure cargo. Located beneath the front bumper are winch-ready tabs for an easy winch installation.
The original transforming utility vehicle adds digital fuel injection and electric power steering to its repertoire
A real two-for-one deal, the Kawasaki Mule™ 4010 Trans4x4® is a one of a kind utility vehicle, with the ability to transform from a short bed four-passenger 4x4 into an extended bed two-passenger 4x4 in a few quick steps. Trans4x4 users can fold down the rear bench seat and extend the cargo bed forward into the cab for increased cargo capacity. When more than two seats are needed, the Trans4x4 can be quickly converted back to four-passenger mode by reversing those same easy steps.
The wheelbase of the Mule 4010 Trans4x4 is 11.6 inches longer than a standard 4010, yet still offers a tight turning radius and excellent rough terrain capabilities. New digital fuel injection (DFI) and electric power steering (EPS) systems work in conjunction with selectable four-wheel drive, a fully-automatic transmission and a locking rear differential to make the versatile Mule 4010 Trans4x4 an outstanding choice for just about any utility vehicle need. Bold new truck-like styling is complimented by smooth car-like controls, a revised dashboard layout and a tilting cargo bed.
The new 2009 Mule 4010 Trans4x4 is powered by a liquid-cooled 617cc four-stroke V-twin engine with DFI. Managed by a digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU), its DFI system compensates for variations in atmospheric pressure, engine and air temperature. This promotes easy starting and gives the engine more precise and consistent fuel metering for better throttle response and reduced 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.
