Positioning:
The Honda Big Red MUV700 was positioned as a robust and versatile utility vehicle for agricultural, recreational, and light industrial applications, competing with other side-by-side utility vehicles.
Competitors:
Primary competitors included vehicles from Kawasaki (e.g., Mule series), Yamaha (e.g., Rhino series), and Polaris (e.g., Ranger series) in the side-by-side utility market.
Vehicle Purpose:
Designed for hauling, towing, and navigating challenging terrain, offering a balance of power, maneuverability, and utility.
Manual Value Proposition:
Offers dealership-level repair and maintenance information at a fraction of the cost, empowering owners for self-service and preventative care.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, home mechanics, farm operators, outdoor enthusiasts, and professional technicians working on Honda Big Red MUV700 vehicles.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, internal components (crankshaft, pistons, rods, valves, camshaft), cooling system, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel lines, ECU control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (Hydrostatic Transmission with Torque Converter), gear shifting mechanisms, internal components, fluid service, diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, final drive units, 2WD/4WD engagement system.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (double A-arm), rear independent suspension (double A-arm), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering system, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel, power steering (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), lighting, fuses, relays, ECU, wiring diagrams, sensors.
Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat removal, cargo bed.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, spark plug replacement, air filter service.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues across all systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission service, brake system overhauls, and electrical component replacement.
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions for the entire vehicle, allowing for in-depth component-level service.
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for both novice DIY enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic codes.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed, high-quality illustrations, diagrams, and photographs to guide repair and maintenance procedures.
Searchability:
Searchable PDF format allowing quick access to specific information using keywords.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, OHV, 45-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
75.0 mm x 76.0 mm
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Estimated Horsepower:
Approximately 40-45 hp (manufacturer data not readily available, estimated based on similar displacement V-twins)
Estimated Torque:
Approximately 40-45 lb-ft (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) with 40mm throttle body
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (refer to manual for specific Honda recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 L (2.6 US qt) with filter change (verify in manual)
Coolant Type:
Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Overall Length:
Approx. 113.8 inches (2890 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 57.3 inches (1455 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 76.9 inches (1953 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 71.3 inches (1810 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 11.3 inches (287 mm)
Cargo Bed Length:
Approx. 32.5 inches (825 mm)
Cargo Bed Width:
Approx. 45.5 inches (1155 mm)
Cargo Bed Depth:
Approx. 9.9 inches (250 mm)
Cargo Bed Capacity:
Approx. 882 lbs (400 kg)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 1,179 lbs (535 kg) (varies slightly by configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 1,036 lbs (470 kg) (including rider and cargo)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 1,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval and operating conditions).
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 6 months or 300 miles; clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 2,000 miles or 12 months (typical, verify in manual).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Refer to manual for specific HST fluid change intervals, often tied to hours of operation or mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher.
Coolant Specification:
Honda Genuine All Season Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
CV joint boots, suspension bushings, drive belts are common wear items due to the nature of off-road use. Check for damage and wear regularly.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Regular cleaning of fuel injectors and checking fuel filter can prevent performance issues related to fuel delivery.
Hst Maintenance:
Proper maintenance of the Hydrostatic Transmission (HST), including fluid changes and filter checks as per the manual, is critical for longevity.
Manufacturer Heritage:
Honda has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable, high-quality engines and vehicles across various segments, including ATVs and utility vehicles.
Introduction Year:
The MUV700 'Big Red' was introduced in 2009, marking Honda's re-entry into the side-by-side utility market.
Key Innovations:
Featured Honda's advanced liquid-cooled V-twin engine, independent suspension, and an automotive-style automatic transmission (Hydrostatic Transmission).
Production Period:
2009-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., Timmonsville, South Carolina) for the North American market.