Outboard Control
Outboard Control Can a yamaha 40 hp outboard motor (tiller model) be converted with steering controls to a center console? Yes it could but it would ber expensive and you would need some kind o...
Outboard Control
2009 Kawasaki Brute Force 650 4X4I
With all the recent advancements in ATV technology, the 2009 Kawasaki Brute Force 650 4x4i chose to remain old school. Devoid of power steering and an electronic fuel injection system, one wonders why Kawasaki did not bother to slap those gizmos in.
Providing the brute force to the Brute Force is a 90 degree, four stroke 633cc V-twin. Though still carbureted, the engine provides exceptional torque. Keeping the cool of this brute is a larger radiator and a thermostatically controlled fan. The engine is highly tunable for greater performance demands.
Harnessing the V-twin's power is a fully automatic, continuously variable transmission (KAPS-CVT). A variable front differential control allows the rider to supply the two front wheels with more power simply by manipulating the small lever near the front brake lever.
Kawasaki has always been inadvertent to the implementation of power steering in their ATVs, the Brute Force having no power steering itself, handles surprisingly well. To compensate for what it lacks, Kawasaki adjusted the caster angle of the A-arm.
The Brute Force is equipped front and rear double-wishbone independent suspensions. Both front and rear suspensions are preload adjustable. With the suspensions having only 6.7 inches of travel at the front and 7.9 at the rear, the Brute Force has only 9.7 inches of ground clearance which is very low. The double-wishbone on each of the wheels however, provides good ground-following abilities.
The task of stopping this brute falls on the 200mm front discs and the enclosed, oil-bathed multidisc rear brake system. Enclosed together with the rear gears, automotive repair manuals, the brake pads are protected from dust and debris. Enhancing the braking system is an electronically controlled engine braking system which monitors the ground speed and controls the engine's compression to slow the ATV down.
Why Kawasaki didn't bother to add technology to this ATV? The answer is simple – the machine works perfectly. The Brute Force is able to compete with its mid-range class rivals, among them are ATVs equipped with EPS and EFI systems.
Brilliant as it may seem, clymer repair manuals should rethink their idea of not putting useful systems in their ATVs. It's like Disney avoiding CG, and eventually giving in. Kawasaki should give in.
About the Author
Mike has been working on cars and trucks since he got his first Olds 442 in the early 70's. Since then he was worked on many vehicles and is deeply interested in electronics and the new computer controls of todays vehicles. While it might seem they are limiting the DIY'r he thinks just the opposite. With the right OBDII Code Reader and Haynes repair Manual you can do far more than the days of screwdrivers and timing lights.