Have a question about KOHLER engines? Look to see if we've already addressed it here.

What are the advantages of hydraulic valve lifters?

Hydraulic valve lifters reduce valve noise and compensate for valve wear. This eliminates valve adjustments and ensures full power output throughout the life of the engine.

What oil should I use in my engine?

10W-30 (Command Oil) is recommended for Command, Courage, Command PRO, Command PRO CS, Triad OHC, and Aegis engines for temperatures above freezing (32°F, 0°C). K-Series and Magnum engines should use SAE 30 (Magnum Oil) above freezing. 5W-20 or 5W-30 can be used in all engines when temperatures are below freezing. For more complete oil specifications refer to your owner's manual. For optimum performance, KOHLER's special blend oils are available from your KOHLER dealers.

Can I use synthetic oil in my engine?

Synthetic oils meeting the classifications listed in the owner's manual may be used, however oil changes still need to be performed at the recommended intervals. To allow the piston rings to seat properly, Kohler recommends operating a new or rebuilt engine for at least 50 hours on standard oil before switching to the synthetic oil

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How much oil do I put in my engine?

Due to possible variations within a model series, it is recommended that you rely on your actual dipstick readings. Add oil of the proper type, up to the "F" or "FULL" mark on the dipstick. Your owner's manual can provide you with more specific information.

What fuel is recommended for my engine?

Unleaded regular gasoline with a pump sticker octane rating of 87 or higher can be used. If you are required to use oxygenated fuel, blends containing a maximum of 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE are acceptable. Fuels with higher concentrations and methanol blends are not recommended.

When was my engine built?

You can determine the manufacture of your engine using the serial number. Click here to view a sample engine identification decal.

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What can I do to maximize the longevity of my engine?

Perform proper maintenance for each of the following areas, as outlined in your owner's manual:
1. Air Filter
2. Oil (and filter)
3. Cooling System (including the flywheel fan, cooling fins, and any radiators or oil coolers).

What is the warranty period on KOHLER engines?

All KOHLER Courage, Triad OHC, Command PRO, Command and Magnum engines have a 2 year warranty period from the date of purchase by the end user.

Where are the engine identification numbers located / how do I identify my engine?

The engine identification numbers (model, spec, and serial number) are on a silver decal normally affixed to the blower housing of the engine. These numbers should be provided to the dealer whenever parts are required.

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My battery is dead, can I jump start my engine/equipment?

We recommend that the battery be disconnected, recharged with a battery charger, and then tested for full capacity. Jump-starting can damage other components on the engine.

My engine is in need of repair, who do I contact?

We suggest that you contact an authorized KOHLER dealer to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate service/repair options. If you desire a second opinion the dealer should contact their central distributor.

How do I locate the nearest KOHLER dealer?

Click here or you can find your nearest KOHLER dealer by looking in your local Yellow Pages under "Engines-Gasoline", or by calling 1-800-544-2444 in the U.S. or Canada.

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Why is my engine flooding/running poorly after getting it out of storage?

Varnish and gum deposits from stale gasoline are frequently the cause. We recommend that the engine be checked and serviced by an authorized Kohler dealer. In the future, you can avoid this problem by following the storage procedures in the owner's manual. Adding a stabilizer to the fuel in the fuel tank before a period of non-use (one month or more) will help prevent fuel deterioration.

Why does my engine backfire when I shut it off?

Your owner’s manual has proper shutdown procedures to avoid this occurrence. If your engine is equipped with a fuel shut-off solenoid, be certain to set the throttle between half and full throttle before turning the key switch "off."

Can I buy parts direct from the factory?

KOHLER parts may be obtained from any of the authorized dealers in your area. The dealer will need the engine identification numbers (model, spec, and serial no), to provide the correct parts. Parts are not sold direct from the factory.

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Is there an after market filter I can use on my Kohler engine?

KOHLER brand filters are produced to our exact specifications. This includes media size and internal valve requirements. There may be filters on the market that are very similar, but we do not know which filters they are, and we have no way of knowing or controlling if they remain the same. Our recommendation is to shop around for the best price on Kohler filters and replace them as recommended in your owner's manual.

Does Kohler still support discontinued K-Series and Magnum engines?

Yes, we do. Sometimes new technology and designs permit us to discontinue one line in favor of a higher performing, lower emission product. Depending on the length of time since Kohler discontinued a given engine, service parts may still be available. Contact your local dealer for more information.

Is there a Command engine that will fit in place of my older K-Series engine?

Switching to a Command engine may be possible, but it will not be a "drop in" replacement. Extensive modifications are often required. We recommend that a Kohler dealer perform conversions of this nature.

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Can I use any oil or fuel additives in my KOHLER engine?

Kohler does not recommend using additives or cleaners in the oil or fuel system. Air-cooled engines operate at higher temperatures than liquid-cooled automotive engines, and additives developed for automotive use may not perform the same at the higher temperatures. Oil additives can prematurely break down, altering the properties of the oil and leading to extensive internal damage or failure. Fuel system cleaning additives have a tendency to separate and turn acidic, causing damage to fuel system components. A fuel stabilizer is recommended in the fuel during periods of non-use (one month or more) to retard fuel deterioration.

What applications are powered by KOHLER engines?

KOHLER engines are found on a wide array of applications that include lawn and garden, commercial landscape, industrial, construction and agricultural applications.

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