Mule 4010 rattle

[Scott Conradson]

I have a brand new Kawasaki Mule 4010 4x4 trans.  While driving it has a vibration/rattle coming from the box area that I can't seem to locate.  I've gone over the vehicle and all the connections associated with converting the vehicle from single to two bench are securely latched.  The tail gate is firmly latched and I don't notice any lose bolts.  Looking for clues to what is vibrating causing the rattle and how to correct.

 

Muleman 

[Travis]

Welcome to the UTV Board!

 since its new I would get in touch with your dealer.\

also, i would put it in Neutral, and rev the engine, if the rattle doesnt happen, then its most likely and issue with the drive system.

[kenfain]

Welcome to the forum!

I've got an older mule 3010. That thing has always rattled since it was new. Mostly the trailer hitch, when the bar is installed. But I agree with Travis. If it bothers you then it's a dealer/warranty issue. When it needs to go back for the first scheduled warranty maintenance. I'd have them look at it then. 

[Scott Conradson]

I've identified that the rattle is coming from the hinge for the tailgate.  It only makes the rattle/vibration at mid range RPMs.  If I jam a piece of flexible rubber mat into the jam of the tailgate it stops the vibration form occurring.  A permanent fix would be a rubber or plastic bushing inside the hinge to prevent it from happening.  I'll inquire with the dealer and see what they want to do for a fix.  Thanks for the responses.

Scott

[kenfain]

Don't know if they'll work on that. Since it's just exactly like it was designed. However, if you give them some ideas that're easy. Like taking the pin out, and giving it a smack right in the middle with a hammer. Like how you fix a household door that creaks/swings by itself. Giving it just enough warp to hold it tight.

Not familiar with the new design, I have no idea if that's even reasonable. But it might work. Maybe grease the hinge pin?

If it's too much end play, maybe you could find a nylon washer at Lowe's? You wouldn't even need to pull the pin. You could just split the washer, and  push it in place in the gap at the end. Even if it wasn't end play, that might put enough pressure on the pin to quieten it down.