17
Dirty Air
Possible Cause No
Improper
Dirt In
Intake Screen
Incorrect
Engine
Dirty Air
Faulty
Problem
Fuel
Fuel
Fuel Line
or Radiator
Oil Level
Overloaded
Cleaner
Spark Plug
Will Not Start
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Hard Starting
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Stops Suddenly
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Lacks Power
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Operates Erratically
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Knocks or Pings
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Skips or Misfires
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Backfires
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Overheats
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High Fuel Consumption
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Troubleshooting
When troubles occur, be sure to check the simple causes which, at first, may seem too obvious to be considered.
For example, a starting problem could be caused by an empty fuel tank. Some common causes of engine troubles
are listed in the following table.
Do not attempt to service or replace major engine components, or any items that require special timing or
adjustment procedures. Have your Kohler Engine Service Dealer do this work.
Storage
If the engine will be out of service for two months or
more, use the following storage procedure:
1. Clean the exterior surfaces of the radiator and
engine.
2. Change the oil and filter while the engine is still
warm from operation. See “Change Oil and Filter”
on page 9.
3. The coolant (anti-freeze) mixture should be in good
condition and tested to guard against freezing in
cold temperatures. The recommended equal parts
mixture will normally provide protection down to
temperatures of -37°C (-34°F). If storage
temperatures will fall below this, the cooling system
should be drained. A note should then be attached
to the equipment and/or engine as a reminder to
refill the cooling system before starting.
4. The fuel system must be completely emptied, or
the gasoline must be treated with a stabilizer to
prevent deterioration. If you choose to use a
stabilizer, follow the manufacturers
recommendations, and add the correct amount for
the capacity of the fuel system. Fill the fuel tank
with clean, fresh gasoline. Run the engine for 2-3
minutes to get stabilized fuel into the carburetor.
Close fuel shut-off valve when unit is being stored
or transported.
To empty the system, run the engine until the tank
and system are empty.
5. Remove the spark plugs. Add one tablespoon of
engine oil into each spark plug hole. Install plugs,
but do not connect the plug leads. Crank the
engine two or three revolutions.
6. Store the engine in a clean, dry place.
Parts Ordering
The engine Specification, Model, and Serial Numbers
are required when ordering replacement parts from
your Kohler Engine Service Dealer. These numbers are
found on the identification plate which is affixed to the
engine shrouding. Include letter suffixes if there are
any. See “Engine Identification Numbers” on page 5.
Always insist on genuine Kohler parts. All genuine
Kohler parts meet strict standards for fit, reliability, and
performance.
Major Repair
Major repair information is available in Kohler Engine
Service Manuals. However, major repair generally
requires the attention of a trained mechanic and the
use of special tools and equipment. Your Kohler
Engine Service Dealer has the facilities, training, and
genuine Kohler replacement parts necessary to
perform this service. For Sales & Service assistance
call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. & Canada) or contact your
Kohler Engine Dealer or Service Distributor, they're in
the Yellow Pages under Engines-Gasoline.
