Kawasaki Prairie 300 is an excellent ATV. However, it has showcased a few problems over the last few years. You must address them for a smooth and safe riding experience.
Top Kawasaki Prairie 300 problems include transmission issues linking with gear, low engine power, and idling issues. The Prairie 300 equips with a 290 cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine. It powers the ATV while providing sufficient power and torque to ride on any terrain. Also, it can adjust its power delivery to fit the terrain and rider’s needs.
In simple words, this vehicle is an easy-to-handle, capable machine. It is perfect for various recreational activities, from hunting and fishing to exploring the backwoods. Unfortunately, it showcases a few common problems as we described. If you wish to enjoy better performance from the ATV, continue reading our solutions for these problems.
List Of Kawasaki Prairie 300 Problems
Kawasaki Prairie 300 is a mid-sized all-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufactured by Kawasaki Motors. This sporty ATV is designed to handle a variety of off-road conditions. Hence, it is an ideal choice for recreational riders looking for an adventurous ride. It appeared first time in the market in 1999. Then, it was upgraded to Prairie 360 in 2003.
However, most people will find inadequate power with the older version of the ATV. Also, riders have reported about its transmission and idling. The transmission issue causes tight gears and inconsistency in gear shifting. Plus, the engine often shuts off during idle mode.
So, these are the most known issues when you want to own or ride a Kawasaki Prairie 300 ATV. Please continue reading to know more about these issues.
Gear Shifting Or Transmission Problem
“Does anybody have shift linkage problems with their Prairie? I don’t know how often I’ve struggled with that thing until I was on the verge of going crazy.”
- A rider expressed his agitation regarding the transmission problem. (Source: atvconnection)
- Another owner of Prairie 300 found this issue. He stated,
- “… that will shift easily into reverse and neutral but will not go into the forward gears.” (Source: kawasaki motorcycle)
You may find more complaints regarding transmission difficulties in this vehicle. Often, the rider face problems in shifting to forward gears. There could be several possible reasons to face this problem.
The arm for the shift linkage may slip on the shaft, which can be the primary source of gear-shifting problems. Another reason can be the plate that holds the guides and bearings on the shift forks’ top. If it does not roll properly, you may not shift gears in to forward direction.
Possible Solutions
You can start by taking off the shifter. Then, remove the button mechanism to shift the ATV into gear when needed. It will work better and reduce the pain of rolling it back and forth to shift the gear anymore. If you have wired to start in any gear, it may help when you ride over a muddy surface.
You can also modify the Kawasaki Prairie 300 to start in any gear by following this method:
- You should remove the seat first, and you will see two relays, one larger and one smaller.
- Leave the starter relay near the battery (larger one).
- Pull the connector of the starter circuit relay (smaller one) attached to four wires and remove it.
- Make a secure jumper wire to connect the two black wires at the four-wire connector.
- Tape the connector to the black plastic panel near its earlier position.
- Replace the black plastic panel to complete the modification.
If you want to reverse the modification, you can remove the jumper wire and replace the relay. This modification enables the starter relay to be active whenever the ignition switch is ON, and the starter button is pressed.
Atv Idles
Several complaints were about the Prairie 300 idling. It resists the owner spending more time when they want to start the engine. I have found a rider complaining in this way:
“I have a 2001 Kawasaki Prairie 300 that will idle but dies when you give it throttle. If I give it throttle very slowly, it will rev up and run good but will not run with the fast advance of throttle from idle.” (Source: kawasakimotorcycle)
He tried putting different carburetors on it, but there was no solution. Besides, he inspected the problem and noticed no power to the sensor and heater wires.
Another owner found his Kawai Prairie 300 idling when he first started it with a choke. The ATV started riding once he released the choke. However, the overall performance decreased. (Source: kawasakimotorcycle)
Possible Solutions
If you face this problem, try to increase the speed and hold for a moment. It may die if cracked open from idle. It indicates that the tube is dirty above the main jet and jet needle holder. If so, remove the main jet. Then, try to pull the tube and the needle holder.
Inspect all tiny holes inside the tube. Clean the area and repair it if you see any corrosion. You may also remove the sensor and heater from the car and re-jet them. If the vehicle idles during choking, you may cover off the airbox. It will allow the engine to get more oxygen up in the thin air during the rides.
Here Is A Video That May Help In ATV Idling Problem
Low Power
Another common problem in Prairie 300 Kawai is its sudden power change when riding it. Here is a complaint from an owner: “Just sitting its ok, but if you are riding and turn the lights on it sputtered/ runs with low power.” (Source: fixya.com)
He was getting good mileage and speed till he turned the headlights on. Usually, this problem appears if the ATV has a blown voltage regulator. Another reason can be a damaged fuel filter. You should also check if there is any intake leak between the engine and the carb.
This is a concerning problem since Prairie 300 only has a 290cc engine. So, when its power drops all of a sudden, you may hardly manage to operate the ATV. It becomes even more problematic in the hills and rough terrains.
Possible Solutions
If you have a blown voltage regulator, you need to replace it. The voltage regulator might be too old or have blown out due to an influx in current flow. As Prairie 300 is in the marker from 1999, it has become old. Naturally, the voltage regulator has overcome its shelf life. So, it’s high time you change it. Also, it is an expensive replacement for less than $20. Here is a tutorial video that may help you:
Besides the voltage regulator, three other parts might be responsible for the sudden power loss of the engine. So, you must solve them too. These include:
- Clogged or damaged fuel filter
- Leakages between the carburetor and engine
- Air filter restriction
- So, you need to apply different techniques to fix them.
Fuel Filter Replacement And Cleaning
Identify the location of the fuel filter. Usually, it is tucked up above the voltage regulator rectifier. It is placed in the front or rear tire, looking up. After finding that, check if it is damaged or not. If you find it damaged, then replace it with new aftermarket parts. You may replace the filter on your own. You may find multiple video tutorials on replacing the fuel filter of ATVs.
Stopping Leaks
Then, repair any leakage between the engine and the carburetor. For minor leaks, apply glue can stop them temporarily. However, you must replace the leaky hose for safety and riding smoothness. You may also replace the old spark plug. Adjusting idle speed can be another great solution.
Unrestricted The Air Filter
Still, you may need to do more tasks if you get ATV spits and sputters at half to full throttle. Try using a smaller main jet or use a less-restrictive air filter. It will provide more power to the engine. So you can use it to the fullest capacity.
Conclusion
Kawasaki Motors Corp. recalled around 150000 ATVs in 2005 due to safety issues (source: NBCNEWS). Prairie 300 was one of the recalled vehicles. Significantly, 2001-2005 models were affected by suspension damage and loss of steering control.
However, you do not have to worry about it if you don’t have ATVs of these model years. If you still have any or want to buy Prairie 300 of these years, you may stay aware of the problems. So, these all were about Kawasaki Prairie 300 problems. I hope you have figured the problems and solutions well.