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.
The powerful engine is mated to a continuously
variable transmission (CVT), which is
fine-tuned for the Trans4x4’s higher
passenger and cargo capacity. The transmission
features both high and low ranges, plus
reverse. Utilizing a durable, low-maintenance
shaft drive system, power is transmitted
to a dual-mode rear differential that
can be locked to maximize traction, or
unlocked for improved handling and reduced
ground disturbance when making tight turns.
The driver can also select four-wheel
drive for extra pulling power in difficult
conditions.
The addition of EPS means the low effort
rack-and-pinion steering on the Mule 4010
Trans4x4 is even easier to use than before.
EPS reduces turning effort by up to 30
percent, especially in 4x4 mode or low
speeds. The system uses inputs from vehicle
speed and torque sensors to determine
how much steering assistance is required
from the electric motor. With the high/low-range,
forward/reverse gear lever and the four-wheel
drive selector located on the dash within
easy reach, the operator is able to devote
more attention to driving and/or negotiating
rough or fragile terrain.
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