Auto Starting

Move the generator set master switch to the AUTO position to allow startup by the automatic transfer switch or remote start/stop switch (connected to controller terminals 3 and 4).

Terminals 3 and 4 connect to a circuit that automatically starts the generator set crank cycle when an external source closes the circuit.

Note: The controller provides up to 30 seconds of programmable cyclic cranking and up to 60 seconds rest with up to 6 cycles. The default setting is 15 seconds cranking and 15 seconds rest for 3 cycles. Make cyclic cranking adjustments using the keypad. See Section 2.8.14, Menu 14—Programming Mode, and Section 2.8.8, Menu 8—Time Delays.

Idle (Speed) Mode Warmup and Cooldown Function

The idle (speed) mode function provides the ability to start and run the engine at reduced speed for a selectable time period (0--10 minutes) during warmup. See Section 6.1.5, Idle (Speed) Mode Feature, for installation information.

The controller will override the idle speed mode when the engine reaches the preprogrammed engine warm-up temperature before the idle mode times out.

The idle function also provides engine cooldown at idle speed. The controller overrides the idle speed mode when the engine reaches the preprogrammed engine cooldown temperature before the idle mode times out.

During the idle (speed) mode the controller continues to monitor critical engine parameters such as oil pressure, coolant temperature, and engine speed. The voltage regulator, thermal protection feature, and AC metering are disabled in the idle speed mode.

The controller overrides the idle speed function when the generator set is signaled to start while in the AUTO position. This override provides emergency generator set power in the event of a utility power failure. When the utility power returns and the generator set is signalled to stop, the generator set continues to run for the duration of the idle mode period when the idle mode is active. When the idle mode is not active, the generator set will shut down in the normal stopping mode including time delays.

See Menu 9—Input Setup to activate the idle speed function as a user-defined digital input. The idle speed feature requires an ECM-equipped engine with the idle speed function.

Run Time Feature

The run time feature allows the user to set up the generator set to run unassisted and automatically return to the standby mode. The user does not need to wait for the exercise period (run time) to conclude in order to place the unit back in the standby mode. See Menu 4—Operational Records for setup of this feature.

With the run time enabled, the generator set will begin to crank and run based on the run time period and all previously established time delays from Menu 8—Time Delays.

Generator Set Connected to an Automatic Transfer Switch. Should a utility power failure occur while the unit is in the run time mode, the controller will bypass the run time mode and function in the standby (backup) mode. When the utility power returns, the generator set continues to run for the duration of the run time period when not timed out.

Note: Press the STOP PROG RUN key, when necessary, to stop the generator set when it is in the run time mode.

Prime Power Switch

The digital controller has an optional prime power mode of operation. The prime power mode requires installation of an optional prime power switch kit. See Section 6, Accessories, for instructions on how to install the optional prime power switch kit. The prime power switch kit prevents engine starting battery drain when the generator set is shut down and no external battery charging is available.

Move the prime power switch located on the back of the controller to the CONTROLLER ON position and set the controller time and date before attempting to start the generator set. When the prime power mode is off, all controller functions including the digital display, LEDs, and alarm horn are operative.

Note: After energizing the controller using the prime power switch, set the controller time and date. See Section 2.8.6, Menu 6—TIme and Date.

Stop the generator set using the stopping procedures in Section 2.3.2 before placing the generator set in the prime power mode. Move the prime power switch located on the back of the controller to the CONTROLLER OFF position. When the generator set is is the prime power mode, all controller functions including the digital display, LEDs, alarm horn, and communications are inoperative.

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Kohler 20-3250 kW manual Auto Starting, Idle Speed Mode Warmup and Cooldown Function, Run Time Feature, Prime Power Switch