Like all other UTVs in the MULE™ series, the Kawasaki Mule 2510 trims symbolizes the evolution of Kawasaki UTVs and side x sides in the last 33 years. Not only did the vehicle satisfy consumers’ need for a reliable workhorse when it came out, but it also helped shape the industry’s rec-utility sub-segment. Continue reading and discover how this seemingly simple machine made it all happen.
The Kawasaki Mule 2510 is a top-of-the-line UTV produced by Kawasaki from 1993 to 2002. This V-Twin-powered 4×4 boasts 2WD/4WD driveline modes, dual-mode differential, all-wheel hydraulic brakes, impressive load capacity, and gas/diesel trims. These standout features made it the perfect farm rig.
The Kawasaki Mule 2510 was slowly preparing the stage to become the ideal recreational/utility side x side through iterations and design enhancements. Whether this shift was successful or not will be left for you to decide – or perhaps, discover – in this article.
About the 2510 Kawasaki Mule
The Kawasaki Mule 2510 is the 5th installment in the MULE (Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment) lineup since the 1988 model. Like its predecessor, the vehicle comes standard with practical features that include a tilting cargo box, spacious open chassis, fan-cooled belt converter, and comfortable bench seating. Since the Kawasaki Mule 2510 would not fit in the back of a pickup and required a hauling trailer to bring anywhere, the 4×4 was ideal for those with no storage and transportation restrictions.
Best-known for industrial and agricultural applications, the Mule, was originally powered by a 617-cm3 V-Twin engine. But consumer demand for improved power delivery and fuel efficiency soon compelled Kawasaki to upgrade the quad with a 953-cm3 fuel-injected diesel engine in 2000.
Not only did this enhancement allow the Mule to keep up with its competition, but it also lent to the 4×4’s improved towing capacity – at least for the models released during the last three years of its production run.
The Mule Lineup
Evolutionary changes to the Mule lineup eventually resulted in the birth of other models tailored to consumers’ preferences and needs.
- The Mule 550 and 600 series were a smaller version of the Mule 2510 that benefitted riders who had transport limitations.
- On the other hand, the Mule 3010 was more robust, almost resembling a truck.
- The Mule Trans 4×4 catered to owners in need of a convertible vehicle that can transform from a passenger four-wheeler to a cargo machine at any given time.
- And the Mule 610 XC targeted consumers who wanted a workhorse that could negotiate better on the trails as well as on more challenging obstacles.
Most, if not all, of these trims, were offered in Diesel, EPS, and fuel-injected versions.
Kawasaki Mule 2510 Specs & Features
Engine & Lubrication
The Kawasaki Mule 2510 had two power mill configurations – a liquid-cooled V-twin OHV engine and a fuel-injected diesel one. The carbureted version shares the same bore-stroke ratio and brilliant fuel tank location (under the cargo bed, behind the under-seat fuel gauge) with the Mule 3010.
Both trims require a fuel stabilizer for long-term storage and using the choke more frequently during cold startups. But for the diesel versions, mixing 2-D and 1-D grade diesel fuels (50:50 ratio) to help prevent gelling or wax plugging in the fuel filters and using fuel variants with a higher cetane number are highly recommended.
| 1993-1999 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 (KAF620A) | 2000-2001 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 Diesel (KAF950A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Brand Name | Mikuni | YDHXS 9532D1 |
| Engine Type | 4-stroke OHV | 4-stroke Diesel |
| Cylinder Arrangement | Dual cylinder (V-Twin) | Triple cylinder |
| Carburetion System | Carburetor, Mikuni BV26-18 | Fuel Injection, NIPPON DENSO Bosch VE-type injection pump |
| Engine Cooling | Liquid cooling | |
| Engine Fuel | Alcohol-free unleaded gasoline of at least Antiknock Index/PON 87 or RON 91, containing < 15% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether)/TAME/ETBE, < 10% ethanol, or < 5% methanol w/ cosolvents & corrosion inhibitors | 2-D grade diesel fuel w/ minimum cetane number 40 meeting ASTM D975 specifications (for use year-round), containing 0.05% – 0.5% sulfur content |
| Fuel Capacity | 20 L/5.3 US gal | |
| Bore x Stroke Ratio | 76×68 mm (2.99 x 2.68 in) | 72 x 78 mm (2.83 x 3.07 in) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 (206 psi @ 490 RPM) | 24.8:1 (483 psi @ 300 RPM) |
| Starting System | Electric starter | |
| Displacement | 617 cm³ / 37.6 in³ | 953 cm³ / 58.2 in³ |
| Valve Clearance Cold Intake | 0.25 mm (0.01 in) | 0.20 mm (0.008 in) |
| Valve Clearance Cold Exhaust | 0.25 mm (0.01 in) | 0.20 mm (0.008 in) |
| Maximum Power | N/A | 24.7 hp/25 PS (18.4 kW @ 3,600 RPM) |
| Maximum Torque | 47 Nm (4.8 kgf-m, 34.7 ft-lb @ 2,500 RPM) | 52 Nm (5.3 kgf-m, 38.3 ft-lb @ 2,800 RPM) |
| Top Speed | 25 mph (40 km/h) – loaded, ECU-governed | 42-47 mph (67.6-75.6 km/h) – unadvertised |
| Air Filtration | High-quality foam, wet-type element | Donaldson high-capacity cyclone-type |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication (wet sump) | |
| Engine Oil & Quantity | 1.5 L (1.6 US quarts) w/ filter 1.8 L (1.9 US quarts) w/out filter SAE 10W-40 w/ API grade of SJ meeting JASO T903 MA; Alternatives: SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-50 |
3 L (3.2 US quarts) w/ filter 3.3 L (3.5 US quarts) w/out filter SAE 10W-40 w/ API grade of CH-4 meeting JASO T903 MA; Alternatives: SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-50 |
Drivetrain
2WD/4WD driveline modes actuated via a shift lever, rack-and-pinion steering, and the Mule’s integrated transaxle drive system make for better steering control on dry, high-grip surfaces. Similarly, selectable Hi-Lo gearing increases the vehicle’s hauling capabilities without limiting its top-end speed. Hi-Lo shifting is most appropriate when maximum torque at low speeds is needed – for instance, climbing hills or pulling a trailer.
| 1993-1999 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 (KAF620A) | 2000-2001 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 Diesel (KAF950A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | Forward & reverse, automatic | |
| Gearshift Pattern | H-L-N-R (hand-operated) | |
| Drive System | 4WD/2WD, gear / Belt drive torque converter | |
| Primary Ratio | 3.5 – 0.98 | |
| Final Drive Ratio | 5.4 (81/15) | |
| Transmission Gear Ratio | Forward – High – 1.821; Low – 3.750 Reverse – High – 2.050; Low – 4.220 |
|
Ignition
It has a battery and transistor ignition with an electric starter system and a mechanical recoil backup. A triple-phase A.C. alternator with a rated output of 21 A /12 V @3,000 RPM provides the V-Twin-powered vehicle accessible power for electrical accessories and a 12V auxiliary outlet.
| 1993-1999 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 (KAF620A) | 2000-2001 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 Diesel (KAF950A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Ignition | Battery and transistor | N/A |
| Ignition Timing | 20° (constant) | N/A |
| Spark Plug, Gap | NGK BMR2A, gap (0.6-0.7 mm, 0.024-0.028 in) – N/A for KAF950 Tightening torque: 17 Nm (1.7 kgf-m, 12 ft-lb) | |
| Alternator Type, Rated Output | Triple-phase A.C. alternator | 40-Amp NIPPON DENSO alternator |
| Battery | 12V (19 Ah)/10 Hr, YB16CL-B formats | 12V (52 Ah)/10 Hr, YTX20L-BS formats |
| Battery Dimensions (L x W x H) | 175 x 100 x 175 mm (6.88 x 4.00 x 6.88 in) | 175 x 87 x 155 mm (6.88 x 3.44 x 6.12 in) |
The diesel trims have a spherical/swirl-type combustion chamber where fuel is injected and ignited, eliminating the need for a spark plug and a conventional ignition system. They also share the same battery format as other 617-cm3 Kawie UTVs, but the pre-1999 models require an older, Yumicron-type YB16CL-B battery like an ACDelco Specialty Conventional Powersports Battery (view on Amazon). If the stock alternator is damaged, brand-new Daihatsu replacement alternators or rebuilt generators are available for at least $230.
Tires & Brakes
Tubeless 22-inch tires for the carbureted trims and 23-inch tires for the diesel ones are mounted on the front and rear tubular steel wheels. Depending on the quad’s version, year, and riding conditions, recommended tire pressure may differ.
A mechanical internal-expansion-drum parking brake (to the left of the driver seat), a powerful master cylinder, and hydraulic drum brakes with dual-piston calipers provide the 2510 Kawasaki Mule reliable stopping power.
| 1993-1999 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 (KAF620A) | 2000-2001 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 Diesel (KAF950A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Front Tire, off-road/road air pressure | Tubeless, Dunlop KT869A AT22 x 11-10 80 kPa (0.81 kgf/cm2, 12 psi) |
Tubeless, Dunlop KT869 AT23 x 11-10 69 kPa (0.70 kgf/cm2, 10 psi) |
| Rear Tire, off-road/road air pressure | Tubeless, Dunlop KT869A AT22 x 11-10 180 kPa (1.83 kgf/cm2, 26 psi) |
Tubeless, Dunlop KT869 AT23 x 11-10 167 kPa (1.70 kgf/cm2, 24 psi) |
| Tread Depth Limit (F/R) | 3 mm (0.12 in) / 3 mm (0.12 in) | |
| Front Brake Type | Self-adjusting, hydraulically activated drums | |
| Rear Brake Type | Self-adjusting, hydraulically activated drums | |
Suspension
Coupled with rack-and-pinion steering, the Mule’s short-travel suspension system allows for sufficient bump absorption, plenty of grip, and maneuverability in tight turns and cornering angles. However, getting a 2-inch lift kit (view on Amazon) is necessary to give stock suspension geometry better articulation and improve the four-wheeler’s stability when traversing coarse roads.
| 1993-1999 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 (KAF620A) | 2000-2001 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 Diesel (KAF950A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Type | Tubular steel, ladder-type | |
| Caster, Trail | 7.5°, 35 mm (1.4 in) | |
| Turning Radius | 3.4 m (11.2 ft) | |
| Front Suspension Type, Travel | Independent MacPherson struts, 100 mm (3.9 in) | |
| Rear Suspension Type, Travel | Semi-independent De Dion leaf springs, 70 mm (2.8 in) | |
Dimensions & Capacities
Despite the increase in engine displacement and change in its fuel system, the 2510’s overall dimensions and seat height (unloaded) of 868 mm/34.2 inches remained the same. On the other hand, ground clearance, cargo bed capacity, and maximum vehicle load limit increased – thanks to new coil springs over rear shocks and slightly larger 23-inch knobbies.
The 4×4 also offered under-hood front storage, the capacity of which is unspecified in the Kawasaki Mule 2510 service manual (owner’s manual is free on the manufacturer website, but the service manual costs $59.95).
| 1993-1999 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 (KAF620A) | 2000-2001 Kawasaki Mule™ 2510 Diesel (KAF950A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2,845 mm (112 in) | |
| Width | 1,460 mm (57.5 in) | |
| Height | 1,920 mm (75.6 in) | |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm (6.7 in) | 162 mm (6.4 in) |
| Wheelbase | 1,870 mm (73.6 in) | |
| Track (F/R) | 1,160 mm (45.7 in) / 1,180 mm (46.5 in) | |
| Dry Weight | 537 Kg (1,184 lbs) | 634 Kg (1,398 lbs) |
| Cargo Bed (L x W x H) | 1,175 x 1,310 x 250 mm (46.3 x 51.6 x 9.8 in) | |
| Cargo Bed Capacity | 363 Kg (800 lbs) | 499 Kg (1,100 lbs) |
| Vehicle Load Capacity Limit | 603 Kg (1,330 lbs) | 740 Kg (1,632 lbs) |
| Hitch Tongue Weight | 50 Kg (110 lbs) | |
| Trailer Weight (including cargo) | 545 Kg (1,200 lbs) – rolling weight | |
Exterior
The Kawasaki Mule 2510 has a tubular, ladder-type steel frame and plastic body panels in Firecracker Red and traditional Hunter Green. It also sports a ROPS-matching pure black bodywork with the hood finished in monotone colors. But unlike the Mule 500 and 3000 series, the vehicle’s front and rear-end are both boxy – the Mule does not have a rounded front with a geometric drop nose.
Kawasaki Mule 2510 Price
Here’s a rundown of all Mule 2510 trims and their corresponding MSRPs (figures based on Nada Guides data):
| Year – Trim – Model Number (** 620A – 4×4; 950A – 4×4 Diesel) | List Price | Retail/Trade-In Values |
|---|---|---|
| 1993 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A1 | $7,399 | $690 – $5,595 |
| 1994 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A1 | $7,599 | $690 – $5,730 |
| 1995 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A1 | $7,899 | $720 – $6,130 |
| 1996 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A2 | $8,299 | $735 – $5,915 |
| 1997 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A3 | $8,299 | $910 – $5,775 |
| 1998 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A4 | $8,299 | $1,025 – $5,885 |
| 1999 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A5 | $8,299 | $1,060 – $5,915 |
| 2000 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4 – KAF620A6 | $8,399 | $1,290 – $6,135 |
| 2000 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4, Diesel – KAF950A1 | $9,599 | $1,205 – $5,590 |
| 2001 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4, Diesel – KAF950A2 | $9,799 | $1,470 – $5,790 |
| 2002 Kawasaki Mule 2510 4×4, Diesel – KAF950A2 | $9,799 | $1,830 – $2,410 |
While retail pricing via dealerships ranges from $690 to $6,135, auction and trader-site listings fall between $600 and $5,225. Units valued at $2,800 or higher are typically in near-excellent working condition, with clean plastics and ROPS and functional controls and lights. They also have aftermarket Kawasaki Mule 2510 parts like a front basket, soft top (view on Amazon), a trailer hitch, recovery winch, or a new fuel pump.
Those valued at $4,000 or higher come with accessories such as a 72-inch snowplow (view on Amazon), a full or folding windshield, or a cab enclosure with a heater.
The majority of the auctioned side x sides are ’98-’99 models, although there are some ’93 trims that can still be spotted online. Based on the sites I visited, I would say there is an almost equal count of gas and diesel trims up for grabs. I would, however, advise caution and thorough inspection when deciding on purchasing a pre-loved Mule.
The non-working tilt mechanism of the cargo bed, worn seats, flat tires, or a low-voltage battery is minor and shouldn’t deter you from obtaining the quad secondhand.
However, it may be worth thinking twice if issues with the vehicle include cranking problems, transmission control cable popping out of gear, or a frozen choke cable.
Kawasaki Mule 2510 Problems
Known issues with the Mule 2510 are almost similar (if not the same) as the ones Mule 3010 trims have. As such, it would be worth your while reading that other article to understand the weaknesses of this hardworking four-wheeler further. In the meantime that you have not done so, this section provides references that will help you perform initial troubleshooting should you encounter any of the said problems:
Crank/Turn-Over Issues
Difficulties with starting your Mule can be traced back to clogged intake/fuel lines, discharged battery, or a dirty spark plug/carb – to name a few. Most quad owners point their fingers at the carb and almost immediately jump to doing a rebuild. While this course of action is not wrong, you may want to check electrical, air intake, and ignition components first before starting on that more grueling task. Who knows? You may save some time by simply replacing your spark plug or flushing your water-contaminated fuel tank clean and refilling it with a fresh gallon of petrol or diesel.
Drivetrain Chatter
Out of the probable causes of this issue – worn drive pulley sheaves, chipped transmission gears, damaged clutch friction plate, or a bent/dented U-joint – a faulty belt converter is most likely to cause the squeaking sound coming from the quad. Examine the condition of the V-belt assembly, clutch, and transmission to rule out the problem source.
Overheating Engine
Excessive idling, insufficient airflow, incorrect spark plug (for carbureted trims), cooling system issues, overloading, and inadequate lubrication – these are only some of the things that could lead to overheating. While issues with airflow and cooling require some digging into, the rest have a lot to do with adhering (or not adhering) to manufacturer guidelines on the proper use of the vehicle. Ensuring the correct heat range when buying a new plug and refraining from abusing your machine’s load capacity are simple ways to prevent your 4×4’s power mill from heating up abnormally.
About Kawasaki
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. is a world-leading producer of watercraft and motorized vehicles and maker of the Kawasaki Mule 2510. The Japanese firm has been in the automotive industry for over 50 years, dominating the motorcycle scene for quite sometime long before venturing into the manufacture of ATVs, UTVs, and side x sides.
Like its breakthrough motorcycles, the rest of its product offerings are designed based on technical expertise acquired from its previous experiences in shipbuilding and aircraft engine development. At present, Kawasaki continues to shape other fields and evolve into a company that consistently produces highly engineered, top-caliber vehicles.
Conclusion – Kawasaki Mule 2510 Review
In a nutshell, the Kawasaki Mule 2510 is what people would call a “diamond in the rough.” For a four-wheeler that has made history, is feature-rich, and packed with a lot of muscle, its looks are way too modest.
Inexperienced consumers may find its lackluster styling a bit distasteful. But for enthusiasts and raving Kawasaki fans, this aspect would not matter at all. More than good looks, what is truly important is that the quad is a power transporter, a reliable hauling machine, and a perfect companion to hunting and other outdoor adventures.
Kris is an avid off-roader and outdoor enthusiast who loves to brave the elements and take on challenging terrain. He also enjoys sharing his passion and knowledge with others so that they, too, can appreciate the ride.
About Kris