Engine Service Manual

Electrical System
5332 690 03 Rev. I 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 suffi 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 specifi 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 insuffi 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
All 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.