Kawasaki mule banging while in 4wd

[Matt77]

Anyone else had this and understand what causes it to happen, driving habits etc. I’m about to repair a second mule from the same farm with what looks like the same fault, it sounds like the banging is coming from the front, but when you take the bevel gearbox apart there’s a dog type clutch in there that has rounded edges, so it slips, causing the banging. I’m just interested to know what people’s thoughts are as to why and what is causing it, there’s five years between each repair so plenty of use but both were new at that farm/shoot. Put it 2wd and it won’t make a noise.

 

[agrimax]

I'd guess 4wd is being selected on the move. I maintain one for a neighbour and it doesn't like it at all. Must be stopped moving to select 4wd. A '98 model in every day use and the drive train has never been touched.......yet.........Just wheel bearings and brakes.

 

[Matt77]

Is that the official Kawasaki line? I didn’t know that, most likely being selected on the move I’d guess but I will ask, first one I did was a 2007 machine, this one is a 2012.

 

[Matt77]

This is part of the damage, didn’t take any more pics as hands covered in gear oil

 

[agrimax]

That's well stuffed! I don't know for sure about selecting on the move but this one doesn't like it. It's engaged with a lever and will crunch and grind unless it's static.