2008 Mule™ 3010 4X4 Diesel

Mule™ 3010 4X4 Diesel 2008 MODEL The unbeatable utility vehicle combination: Diesel power, MULE ruggedness and power steering smoothness

Adding some finesse to its muscular worker horse, Kawasaki fitted the hard working Mule™ 3010 4x4 Diesel with electric power steering (EPS) for 2008. Already a proven hand with its reliable and stout diesel engine, automatic transmission, tilting cargo bed, and selectable four-wheel drive, this MULE just got more comfortable and easier to use.

The new EPS offers a more comfortable and controlled ride by reducing steering effort at low speeds and harnessing its electric motor’s inertia to dampen out most of the bump steer and kickback caused by impacts to the wheel. Electrically driven, the motor is controlled by an ECU that uses input from a vehicle speed sensor and torque sensor to determine the amount of assistance provided by the system. The system works immediately and doesn’t put a power drain on the engine. It operates as soon as the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position.

The Mule 3010 4x4 Diesel utility vehicle features a rugged grille, headlights and rounded fenders like its 3000-series siblings. Body panels of the cab are made of durable, colored plastic to help hide scuffing. The front hood of the Mule 3010 Diesel can be lifted with the touch of a button to reveal a large storage space, which also has convenient D-rings to secure cargo and the two lever latches make opening and closing the tailgate easy. Located beneath the front bumper are winch-ready tabs for an easy installation of a winch.

The Mule 3010 4x4 Diesel powerplant is a liquid-cooled, 953cc three-cylinder diesel engine that produces high torque at low engine rpm. Air for the engine is drawn through an intake located at the top of the cab frame and passes through a cyclone-type air cleaner, reducing dust intake.

The diesel engine is matched to the Kawasaki Automatic Power-Drive System (KAPS) a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features a high and low range, reverse, and helps keep engine rpm in the most efficient range for any selected="true"="true"="true" vehicle speed, load, or terrain and yields a wide drive ratio spread for ample pulling power and quick acceleration. Strength and durability are aided by large torque converters which maximize belt engagement area, improve heat dissipation, as well as the use of a thick, strong drive belt and sheaves with high silicon-type material.

The KAPS also features a high-flow cover that helps cool the CVT while providing superb splash protection and water-proofing. This reliable system is combined with a dependable, low-maintenance shaft drive to transmit power to a dual-mode rear differential that can be locked to maximize traction, or unlocked to minimize ground disturbance when making tight turns. The operator can also select four-wheel drive for extra pulling power in difficult conditions.

Helping the filter stay clean and last longer—especially in the rugged conditions for which this Kawasaki was built—the engine air and converter cooling air are drawn from the top of the cab frame, where there’s less dust.

Controls on the Mule 3010 4x4 Diesel are also easy to operate. The high/low-range, forward/reverse shift lever and the lever for selecting four-wheel drive operation are all placed within easy reach on the dash. The coolant temperature warning light is easy to see, and a push-button control activates the headlights. Other standard features include an hour meter, fuel gauge and horn.

The chassis of the Mule 3010 4x4 Diesel is a ladder-type frame that rides on a DeDion rear leaf-spring suspension designed to carry heavy loads yet provide a smooth ride when the cargo bed is empty. MacPherson struts handle front suspension duties, while rack-and-pinion steering is light and maneuverable over rough terrain. Four hydraulically operated, self-adjusting drum brakes that are sealed to protect from water, mud and other debris provide stopping power, and 23-inch tires provide a comfortable ride and maximum traction over a variety of surfaces.

The Mule 3010 4x4 Diesel utility vehicle can carry up to 1,100 pounds in its steel cargo bed and can tow up to 1,200 pounds. Other standard features include a 5.3-gallon fuel tank, spin-on oil filter and a U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestor in its muffler.