Maintenance Instructions
KOHLER Tips
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR CARE OF THE KOHLER ENGINE
Fuel System
•Fuel must be clean - free from water, dirt, and or ganic material.
•Change fuel filter on a regular basis and when contamination is suspected or found in the fuel.
Starting/Stopping
•Start engine with the throttle advanced off idle (1/4 to 1/2 throttle). This will aid starting, especially in cold weather.
•Keep the battery fully charged.
•Match crankcase oil viscosity to the ambient tem perature, allowing the engine to crank faster and start easier.
•Allow engine to run at idle for a few seconds be fore stopping engine to avoid
Cooling System
CAUTION
DO NOT use a pressure washer to clean the cooling system on an
•Keep engine air intake screen and cylinder head fins free of grass clippings, chaff, and dirt. Inspect intake screen and cooling fins for cleanliness and no damage.
•Periodically remove two access panels in the en gine shroud to inspect and clean cylinder head cool ing fins.
•Check performance of the cooling system by starting the engine, holding a hand adjacent to the cylinder head, and feeling the cooling airflow.
danger
Make sure to keep hands clear of exhaust pipe, muffler, and moving parts when checking airflow.
•Operate the engine at full speed when mowing. This allows the engine to produce full horsepower and move more cooling air through the engine cool ing fins.
Air Cleaner System
•Use only EnginaireTM air cleaner elements. Aftermarket elements may not seal in the air cleaner housing, allowing dirt to enter the engine. Also, af termarket filters often skimp on the filtration media and require more frequent replacement (see follow- ing instructions).
•Use the air filter restriction gauge to indicate the need to service the air filter.
•Do frequently check the Turbine Precleaner (lo- cated in the end cap of the air cleaner assembly) for free movement of the internal fan. Shine light into end cap to verify movement of fan with engine run- ning.
•DO NOT overservice or frequently “disturb” the air filter. A dirty air filter actually cleans better than a new one. Changing and cleaning the air filter too often can actually reduce filter efficiency and in crease the opportunity for traces of dust to enter the engine. Wait until the element really needs servicing as indicated by the air filter restriction gauge.
•When the air filter element is removed or replaced, make sure all dust is cleaned out of the air cleaner housing and hose. Use a damp cloth and wipe the interior of the canister and hose clean (a little dirt left here will be sucked into the engine and reduce engine life). When the filter is reinstalled, make sure the element is held tight and straight in the canister for proper seating and sealing.
•Periodically check the air intake hose for cuts, nicks, etc., and the hose clamps for tightness.
Oil
•Use only
•Use only Kohler oil filters. Aftermarket filters may not seal properly and/or have the incorrect pressure relief valve for proper lubrication.
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