Kawasaki Brute Force 750: Most Common Problems & Solutions

Kawasaki’s Brute Force 750 ATV is built strong to take on the toughest trails and the biggest jobs. But it’s also built with plenty of creature comforts to keep you riding all day long. It was introduced in 2005 and is still in production. 

The heart of the Brute Force 750 is a 749cc V-twin engine that puts out a healthy amount of power. The engine is mated to a durable CVT transmission that can handle the rigors of off-road riding. However, despite being so popular Kawasaki Brute Force 750 problems are quite a few that has risen debate among riders off-late. 

The Brute Force 750 has been known to have several issues. Some common problems include loosening of the belt, engine knocking, hard starts, oil leaks, and overheating. In this blog, I explain some common problems of the Kawasaki Brute Force 750 with their solutions.

Kawasaki Brute Force 750

List Of Kawasaki Brute Force 750 Problems:

List Of Kawasaki Brute Force 750 Problems

The Brute Force 750 comes standard with Kawasaki’s Electronic Power Steering (EPS). It makes steering effortless. Also, the EPS system has a Variable Assist feature that provides more assistance at lower speeds and less at higher speeds.

Again, it rides on a set of sturdy steel wheels that are shod with mud-ready tires. The suspension is handled by a set of independent front and rear suspension that gives the ATV a comfortable ride.

Problem Name

What Happens

Possible Solution

Engine Knocking

Loud noise from the bike

Rebuild the engine, balance the drivetrain

Belt Slipping

The belt loosens or slips often

Belt replacement

Starting Issue

The engine fails to start

Replace the battery or starter solenoid

Oil Leakages 

Oil leaks from the coolant chamber

Replace the seal

Engine Overheating

Engine overheats during summer

Clean and relocate the radiator

4-wheel-drive Mode Issue

The indicator remains at 2WD while switching to 4WD

Reset the actuator

Connector Corrosion 

Corrosion and damaged wiring 

Clean the buss connectors

Radiator Fan Dysfunction 

Engine overheats for radiator

Change the fuse of the fan and fan motor

As you have seen a glance at the common issues regarding Brute Force 750 from Kawasaki, I request you continue reading. Please note that the owners have already met and solved all these problems. Also, some cases required expert hands to solve them. I have collected all these data from different user forums or communities I have used as the source in this article. 

Problem – 1: Engine Knocking

Many owners of Kawasaki Brute Force 750 have faced this trouble as they heard rattling or loud noise from their quad bikes. 

For instance, one owner said, “….but there is a very loud knock on this thing. . Could one of the clutches be the issue?” (Source: Kawieriders)

Another owner met same issue. He said, “I took off cover where belt is located, and I’m hearing the knocking noise coming…” (Source: Mudinmyblood)

Investigating the issue, most experts and riders have discovered that the faulty clutch or loose flywheel is responsible for creating the problem. Some other experts held the suspension, improper adjustment of shocks, imbalanced drivetrain, and bent or damaged frame responsible. 

Possible Solution:

  • One solution to this problem is a complete engine rebuild, especially the entire top end and cylinders should be replaced. 
  • The second solution can drain the oil and remove the filter to check the brass filings in the oil. If you find anything wrong, you may need to solve that by calling experts. 
  • If the noise appears for suspension, first, you should check the status of the shocks. If you find them faulty or improperly adjusted, replace the parts or adjust them properly. Sometimes, you may find damaged or worn-out suspension arms and links too. 

An imbalanced drivetrain happens when the bike has worn-out bearings, leaf springs, or even an imbalanced wheel. In that case, you must replace the defective parts. Finally, if you find any, you should replace the bent or damaged frame in the ATV. 

Problem – 2: Belt Slipping

Belt Slipping

It is obvious that ATVs are built to ride on rough terrains. For this reason, they need to carry heavy loads often. As a result, problems like belt slipping or loose belt happens. Yes, it is another common problem of Brute Force 750. Again, an off-road bike is likely to get mud or dust in its internal parts. 

Usually, mud or water enters the quad bike, and the belt slips. So, you should install mudguards and other gear for protection. Thus, there are more reasons to get belt slipping problems in your favorite bike. They can be the improper setting of the new or existing belt, worn out or damaged belt, or excessive power to the wheels. Typically, the problem appears when ATV’s wheels are stuck. 

Possible Solution:

If your quad bike gets this problem, you should first look at the clutch spring pressures and flyweights. They should be corrected. Therefore, belt replacement is the most effective way to prevent belt slipping. Before that, you can try adjusting the deflection properly. Ensure that you have set the clutch springs correctly. Also, the flywheels should move without any restrictions. 

Cleaning the sheaves surface or correcting torque set-up may be other solutions to the problem. If everything is done, and the ATV still has the belt slipping, you can call the dealer and ask him to replace the belt. 

Problem – 3: Starting Issue

You may know about another Brute Force 750 issue: the engine won’t start. Mostly, the problem is common in harsh (extremely cold) weather. You want to start the ATV, but it will hardly start well. 

Some reasons to the issue are insufficient battery power, dead battery, defective wiring system, ignition switch, ECU, and damaged spark plugs. You may need to replace some or call the mechanic to inspect and solve them. 

Possible Solution:

  • If you find insufficient fuel is reaching the engine, you should make the gas tank full. Also, ensure that the fuel line is fine. For damaged spark plugs, you should clean or replace them if needed. 
  • Try to charge the battery fully and see if the problem still occurs. If it does not work, you may need to replace the battery. Nothing to worry about as you may get many affordable aftermarket products. 
  • Replacing the starter solenoid may help start the bike again. It could be the culprit of engine failure to start. Finally, check all the wires and connections to know their status. Act accordingly if you find them loose or corroded. 

Problem – 4: Oil Leakages

Oil Leakages

Oil Leakage can be disastrous, especially if you are on the move riding the Brute Force 750. In fact, several owners have complained about this problem and discussed it in different forums. 

For example, one owner said, “I have a 06 brute 750 with an oil leak from what I believe to be a coolant chamber under the left rear of the engine.” (Source: Kawieriders)

Like this owner, you may see oil marks on how you ride the ATV. It will gradually reduce the overall bike experience. Also, it may lead to severe issues you should take care of first. 

Possible Solution:

You may find a tube (looks like a pet cock) down the bike. Then, pull the case of the engine side, and notice a seal that sits inside the case side. This seal is the divider between oil and coolant. After all, the design has a shaft that appears from the oil pump. Then it goes through that side case connecting the coolant pump impeller. Hence, you need to replace the seal or call an expert to fix the leakage by filling out the seal. 

Here is a YouTube video to fix the oil leakage:

Problem – 5: Engine Overheating

Overheating engine of the Kawasaki Brute Force 750 is not that much notable as other problems I have already talked about. But it is connected to rider safety and comfort. Besides, excessive heat may invite serious burnout problems. 

Likewise, I have a real-life example for you, “But now (summer) it overheats still, and I have tried engine ice it just seems that any bit of mud in the radiator and it’s going to overheat.” (Source: Kawieriders). This owner found the engine temperature normal in winter but faced extremities during the hot season. 

Possible Solution:

If your bike engine is scorching, first of all, reduce putting pressure on the engine. I suggest you maintain regular pressure on it, not too fast or too slow. Anyway, there are other solutions to the issue. 

If you take your bike in mud most of the time, you should relocate the radiator and the racks. If it is not the scenario, place a temperature gauge on the bike. Also, install a manual switch to turn its fan on. It may prevent overheating if the radiation is full of mud at any time. 

Cleaning the radiator is also a great idea. Pull the plastics off and see if there is any mud in them. If you find mud, clean it and check that everything will be fine. However, some owners suggest using acids on it like aluminum brighteners, coil cleaner, etc., to clean the radiator. 

Problem – 6: 4-Wheel-Drive Mode Issue

4-Wheel-Drive Mode Issue

One major issue of the Kawasaki Brute Force 750 appears in its engagement of 4-wheel-drive(4WD) mode. As you know, the bike has two driving modes: 4WD and 2WD. The first is for rough terrain and the latter is for riding on smooth surfaces. 

This problem appears when you flip the switch to change the mode to 4WD but the indicator remains stuck to 2WD. The actuator does not move a bit. Consequently, the problem could be a result of electrical faults. A bad actuator, blown fuses, bus connectors, water intrusion etc. are responsible for the problem. 

Possible Solution:

The problem is usually known as the 4×4 issue. You should inspect a few things for the issues: 

  • Check the actuator, fuses, buss connector, water intrusion in the wiring harness and front differential. 
  • If the actuator is the reason, you may notice the 2WD or 4WD lights will flash with a 1-sec interval. 
  • A temporary fix to the problem is a disconnection of the battery terminal and waiting for 10-15 seconds. Then, reconnect them to reset the actuator. It will solve the issue for a certain period. 

If you get the problem frequently even after trying this, replace the actuator soon.

Problem – 7: Connector Corrosion

Several owners have faced this problem as the ATVs is exposed to many elements when they ride it. For instance, the connector will corrode when the bike’s electrical system encounters water. You must check this regularly if you love outdoor riding a lot. If you don’t do so, liquids may lead to corrosion and damaged wiring. 

Some symptoms of the problem can be engine overheating for a faulty fan, dead battery for meter tarrying, blown fuses, difficulties in switching to 4WD mode, engine starting without an ignition key, and check belt light flashing. 

Possible Solution:

You should know that there are 2 bus connectors in Brute Force 750 are taped to the wiring harness. If water gets into them, you may face electrical failure while you are on the road. You should clean it for greenish corrosion under the connector cap within the metal contacts. Also, you can add some dielectric grease to seal the connection properly. 

Some older models of this bike may require less effort. You can bundle up the connectors and solder all the wires, and seal them separately from the connectors correctly. 

Problem – 8: Radiator Fan Dysfunction

Radiator Fan Dysfunction

The final problem I am talking about is the failure of the radiator fan. It is apparent that no motor in the world can function correctly without any cooling device. In Brute Force 750, a fan system controls the temperature to reduce overheating of the bike parts. Otherwise, you might have a blown engine at the last step. 

Possible Solution:

You should check a couple of things to identify the root of the problem. 

  • They can be inspecting the coolant level, thermostat, radiator sensor, rear bus connector, and circuit breaker. 
  • However, in most cases, a bad circuit breaker cuts off the fan at odd times, leads the fan from starting correctly. 

Also, the exposure of bike components is another reason for an electrical issue which may lead to radiator dysfunction. In that case, you should keep the wiring harness clean and dry properly on a regular basis. 

If you see the fan’s fuse is blown, you should replace it. Again, for a seized-up or damaged motor, you must replace it with a new one. The last solution will be the replacement of the radiator itself. In that case, you can contact the dealer and let them do the work. 

Final Verdict

All things considered; the Kawasaki Brute Force 750 is a great ATV. It’s built tough to handle the tough trails and the big jobs, but it also has plenty of creature comforts to keep you riding all day long. It’s a great choice for those who want a durable and reliable ATV that can handle anything you throw at it.

However, like all vehicles, it is not without its problems. The most common problems with the Brute Force 750 are belt slipping, engine knocking, hard starts, oil leaks, and overheating. Hopefully, you find the solutions and could fix your ATV for some brilliant adventures.

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