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Kohler electrical issue

#1

G

ghost1

Recently rebuilt 24 hp Kohler. Will start and run fine, then one of the plugs (which are new) loose spark. Thought it might be a coil breaking down so they were switched but the problem stayed on the original side. Any direction would be appreciated.


#2

Fish

Fish

Post your model and spec numbers, your engine may have SmartSpark, and they can be real squirrelly.


#3

G

ghost1

Thanks for the reply Fish. CH26 is all I got as engine is old enough to have info rubbed from tag on cover. Hope that helps...


#4

Fish

Fish

How many little terminals are on the coils, 1 or 2?


#5

G

ghost1

Each have two posts


#6

Fish

Fish

So you do have the Smart Spark, which have been known to be a lot of trouble. A member here named Rivets probably has the Kohler Manual on speed dial, maybe he could throw up the link, if not I'll dig around for it.

The most common problems when I have SmartSpark troubles, is not the SmartSpark box, or S.A.M. unit, but corroded wiring connections somewhere in the system. The dealer will quickly sell you the new S.A.M. unit, but they are non-returnable, and they cost $100ish.......

Just to speed things up, pull and look at the terminals on the back of the keyswitch for corrosion, as I have found that to be the petri dish for SmartSpark
trouble, as the unit needs voltage to the box, and it usually comes directly from here, and poor corroded connections make for some squirrelly symptoms.


#7

G

ghost1

Again, Thanks Fish for the info,

As I had engine apart for rebuild and both had spark before, I would bet I failed to put something back together correctly. I just don't understand why sometimes spark, sometimes not. Definitely sounds like a connection issue. I'll remove engine in the morning and check my work and pull key panel to look for corrosion there. I have Kohler repair manual downloaded, and it does explain "Smart Spark", and SAM. Looks like fun.

Thanks again


#8

Fish

Fish

Yes, the SmartSpark/S.A.M. unit has earned it's rep.


#9

G

ghost1

Well, pulled cover off engine to check work and all wires attached correctly. Still only firing on one cylinder. Spark tester is showing spark, but it's hit or miss with not a very strong arc. Ignition modules were switched and issue continues to be on same side.. Running short on checklist if anybody can offer a suggestion..

Thanks


#10

Fish

Fish

Just for fun.......

Remove both valve covers and take a peek, you will probably find something interesting.


#11

G

ghost1

Here's a chuckle..... It turned out to be a loose nut behind the wheel... You have to make sure both fuel injector connection clips are snapped securely on the injector. Should have checked the obvious first.. Runs like a new one now..

Thanks Fish


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