Electrical System
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24 690 34 Rev. D
KohlerEngines.com
Carbon Fouled
Soft, sooty, black deposits indicate incomplete
combustion caused by a restricted air cleaner, over rich
carburetion, weak ignition, or poor compression.
Overheated
Chalky, white deposits indicate very high combustion
temperatures. This condition is usually accompanied
by excessive gap erosion. Lean carburetor settings,
an intake air leak, or incorrect spark timing are normal
causes for high combustion temperatures.
BATTERY
A 12-volt battery with 400 cold cranking amps (cca) is
generally recommended for starting in all conditions. A
smaller capacity battery is often suf
fi
cient if an
application is started only in warmer temperatures. Refer
to following table for minimum capacities based on
anticipated ambient temperatures. Actual cold cranking
requirement depends on engine size, application, and
starting temperatures. Cranking requirements increase
as temperatures decrease and battery capacity shrinks.
Refer to equipment's operating instructions for speci
fi
c
battery requirements.
Battery Size Recommendations
Temperature
Battery Required
Above 32°F (0°C)
200 cca minimum
0°F to 32°F (-18°C to 0°C)
250 cca minimum
-5°F to 0°F (-21°C to -18°C)
300 cca minimum
-10°F (-23°C) or below
400 cca minimum
If battery charge is insuf
fi
cient to turn over engine,
recharge battery.
Battery Maintenance
Regular maintenance is necessary to prolong battery
life.
Battery Test
To test battery, follow manufacturer's instructions.
ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEMS
Ignition System Components
A
Kill Switch/
Off Position of
Key Switch
B
Air Gap
C
Flywheel
D
Magnet
E
Spark Plug
F
Ignition Modules
A
B
C
D
E
F
There are 2 different types of ignition systems used on
these engines. All systems use an ignition module which
energizes spark plug. Difference in systems is in way
ignition timing is triggered.
Both ignition systems are designed to be trouble free for
life of engine. Other than periodically checking/replacing
spark plugs, no maintenance or timing adjustments
are necessary or possible. Mechanical systems do
occasionally fail or break down. Refer to Troubleshooting
to determine root of a reported problem.
Reported ignition problems are most often due to poor
connections. Before beginning test procedure, check
all external wiring. Be certain all ignition-related wires
are connected, including spark plug leads. Be certain all
terminal connections
fi
t snugly. Make sure ignition switch
is in run position.
