Kohler CV11-16, Service Manual

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3.2
Section 3
Troubleshooting
Engine Loses Power
1. Low crankcase oil level.
2. High crankcase oil level.
3. Dirty air cleaner element.
4. Dirt or water in the fuel system.
5. Excessive engine load.
6. Engine overheated.
7. Faulty spark plug.
8. Low compression.
9. Exhaust restriction.
Engine Uses Excessive Amount Of Oil
1. Incorrect oil viscosity/type.
2. Clogged or improperly-assembled breather.
3. Crankcase being overfi lled.
4. Worn or broken piston rings.
5. Worn cylinder bore.
6. Worn valve stems/valve guides.
External Engine Inspection
Before cleaning or disassembling the engine, make
a thorough inspection of its external appearance and
condition. This inspection can give clues to what might
be found inside the engine (and the cause) when it is
disassembled.
• Check for buildup of dirt and debris on the
crankcase, cooling fi ns, grass screen and other
external surfaces. Dirt or debris on these areas
are causes of overheating.
• Check for obvious oil leaks, and damaged
components. Excessive oil leakage can indicate
a clogged or improperly-assembled breather,
worn or damaged seals and gaskets, or loose or
improperly-torqued fasteners.
• Check the air cleaner cover and base for damage
or indications of improper fi t and seal.
• Check the air cleaner element. Look for holes,
tears, cracked or damaged sealing surfaces, or
other damage that could allow unfi ltered air into
the engine. Also note if the element is dirty or
clogged. These could indicate that the engine has
been underserviced.
• Check the carburetor throat for dirt. Dirt in the
throat is further indication that the air cleaner is
not functioning properly.
• Check the oil level. Note if the oil level is within
the operating range on the dipstick, or if it is low
or overfi lled.
• Check the condition of the oil. Drain the oil into
a container - the oil should fl ow freely. Check for
metal chips and other foreign particles.
Sludge is a natural by-product of combustion; a small
accumulation is normal. Excessive sludge deposits
could indicate the oil has not been changed at the
recommended intervals, incorrect type or weight of oil
was used, overrich carburetion, or weak ignition, to
name a few.
NOTE: It is good practice to drain oil at a location
away from the workbench. Be sure to allow
ample time for complete drainage.
Cleaning the Engine
After inspecting the external condition of the engine,
clean the engine thoroughly before disassembling it.
Also clean individual components as the engine is
disassembled. Only clean parts can be accurately
inspected and gauged for wear or damage. There
are many commercially available cleaners that will
quickly remove grease, oil, and grime from engine
parts. When such a cleaner is used,
follow the
manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions
carefully
.
Make sure all traces of the cleaner are removed
before the engine is reassembled and placed into
operation. Even small amounts of these cleaners can
quickly break down the lubricating properties of engine
oil.