problems with mule

[hatfield]

My father-in-law has a 2005 mule 3010 trans 4x4 (gas) and it has a few minor problems. First off, it clicks sometimes when you try to start it. Sometimes it will start on the first try. Sometimes you will sit there for 5 minutes constantly turning and returning the key and it will finally start. One time it took about 45 minutes.

Another problem is that it goes dead all the time when idling, and because of this you will grind gears since you have to rev it up, then put it in gear quickly before it goes dead.

Other than that it runs fine.

Thanks for the help.
Like the website.

[Kawi]

Make sure the connections on your battery are tight and check the battery, if you tried starting it for 45 minutes the battery may ruined. When you start it hot or cold, pull the choke all the way out and I mean all the way, depress the gas pedal halfway and only once. Try that and see how it goes.

[John Taylor]

Sounds like the battery isn't strong enough for the solenoid to kick in, or a bad starter solenoid. Try putting boaster cables on with another battery or vehicle and see what happens. Other problem may need an idle adjustment or carb cleaned out. Refer to your owners manuel for idle adjustment. I don't claim to be a Kawasaki mechanic but very familiar with auto and lawn equipment mechanics.

Hope this can be of help.

[MICKEYTKD]

I had this same problem this past summer (05' 3010 4x4 )and thought my starter was shot and almost bought a new starter. A friend showed up while I was yanking out the drive pulleys and he said that's not the starter it's a short in the wiring. Sure enough the front winch I had installed had a wire rubbing and shorting out and causing the mule to run rough then just died. Try looking there. Make sure the terminals are clean at the battery and also underneath where the starter is located. Good luck