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HomeRepair HelpKohler RepairKohler Small engine runs poorly Repair
Kohler Small engine runs poorly
If your Kohler small engine runs poorly, runs rough, surges, or sputters, the carburetor is the most likely cause. Stale or ethanol-blended fuel left in the carburetor, especially on seasonal equipment, can evaporate and leave behind sticky deposits that clog the passages and make the engine run poorly. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner, then rebuild or replace it if cleaning does not restore smooth operation. A Kohler small engine carburetor repair kit can provide the gaskets and other parts needed for a rebuild. Next, inspect the spark plug for a cracked insulator, damaged or burned electrode, or heavy carbon buildup. Test it with a spark plug tester and replace it if it does not produce a strong spark. A clogged fuel filter, also commonly caused by old fuel, can restrict fuel flow and cause engine sputtering or loss of power. Drain old fuel from the tank and replace the filter. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement carburetor, spark plug, fuel filter, or repair kit for your specific Kohler engine.
01 - Kohler Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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02 - Kohler Carburetor Repair Kit
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - Kohler Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If there is no spark, this indicates that the spark plug is defective and should be replaced.
Highly Likely
04 - Kohler Fuel Filter
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the engine, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kohler small engine running rough or surging?
Can a bad spark plug make my Kohler engine run poorly?
Could a clogged fuel filter cause my Kohler engine to sputter or lose power?
How do I find the correct Kohler small engine part for my repair?
What should I check before taking a Kohler engine that runs poorly to a technician?