Kohler COMMAND 11-16 HP User manual

1
COMMAND 11-16 HP
OWNER'S MANUAL
HORIZONTAL CRANKSHAFT

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Safety Precaution
To insure safe operations please read the following state ents and understand their eaning.
Also refer to your equip ent owner's anual for other i portant safety infor ation. This anual
contains safety precautions which are explained below. Please read carefully.
WARNING
Warning is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that
can cause severe personal injury,
death, or substantial property da age if the warning is ignored.
CAUTION
Caution is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that
will or can cause inor personal injury
or property da age if the caution is ignored.
NOTE
Note is used to notify people of installation, operation, or aintenance infor ation that is
i portant but not hazard-related.
For Your Safety!
These precautions should be followed at all ti es. Failure to follow these precautions could result
in injury to yourself and others.
Explo ive Fuel can cau e fire and
evere burn .
Stop engine before filling fuel tank.
WARNING
Explo ive Fuel!
Gasoline is extre ely fla able
and its vapors can explode if
ignited. Store gasoline only in
approved containers, in well
ventilated, unoccupied buildings,
away fro sparks or fla es. Do not
fill the fuel tank while the engine is
hot or running, since spilled fuel
could ignite if it co es in contact
with hot parts or sparks fro
ignition. Do not start the engine near
spilled fuel. Never use gasoline as a
cleaning agent.
Rotating Part can cau e evere
injury.
Stay away while engine is in
operation.
WARNING
Rotating Part !
Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing
away fro all oving parts to
prevent injury. Never operate the
engine with covers, shrouds, or
guards re oved.
Hot Part can cau e evere burn .
Do not touch engine while operating
or just after stopping.
WARNING
Hot Part !
Engine co ponents can get
extre ely hot fro operation. To
prevent severe burns, do not touch
these areas while the engine is
running, or i ediately after it is
turned off. Never operate the engine
with heat shields or guards
re oved.
Electrical Shock can cau e injury.
Do not touch wires while engine is
running.
CAUTION
Electrical Shock!
Never touch electrical wires or
co ponents while the engine is
running. They can be sources of
electrical shock.
Engine exhaust fro this product
contains che icals known to the
State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive
har .
California
Propo ition 65 Warning

3
Safety Precaution (Cont.)
Accidental Start can cau e evere
injury or death.
Disconnect and ground spark plug
lead before servicing.
WARNING
Carbon Monoxide can cau e
evere nau ea, fainting or death.
Do not operate engine in closed or
confined area.
WARNING
Lethal Exhau t Ga e !
Engine exhaust gases contain
poisonous carbon onoxide.
Carbon onoxide is odorless,
colorless, and can cause death if
inhaled. Avoid inhaling exhaust
fu es, and never run the engine in
a closed building or confined area.
WARNING
Explo ive Ga can cau e fire and
evere acid burn .
Charge battery only in a well
ventilated area. Keep sources of
ignition away.
Accidental Start !
Di abling engine. Accidental
tarting can cau e evere injury or
death. Before working on the engine
or equip ent, disable the engine as
follows: 1) Disconnect the spark
plug lead(s). 2) Disconnect negative
(-) battery cable fro battery.
Explo ive Ga !
Batteries produce explosive
hydrogen gas while being charged.
To prevent a fire or explosion, charge
batteries only in well ventilated
areas. Keep sparks, open fla es,
and other sources of ignition away
fro the battery at all ti es. Keep
batteries out of the reach of children.
Re ove all jewelry when servicing
batteries.
Before disconnecting the negative (-)
ground cable, ake sure all switches
are OFF. If ON, a spark will occur at
the ground cable ter inal which
could cause an explosion if hydrogen
gas or gasoline vapors are present.
Congratulation – You have selected a fine four-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled engine. Kohler designs long
life strength and on-the-job durability into each engine… aking a Kohler engine dependable…dependability you
can count on. Here are so e reasons why:
• Efficient overhead valve design and full pressure lubrication provide axi u power, torque, and reliability
under all operating conditions.
• Dependable, aintenance free electronic ignition ensures fast, easy starts ti e after ti e.
• Kohler engines are easy to service. All routine service areas (like the dipstick and oil fill, oil filter, air cleaner,
spark plug, and carburetor) are easily and quickly accessible.
• Parts subject to the ost wear and tear (like the cylinder liner and ca shaft) are ade fro precision
for ulated cast iron. Because the cylinder liner can be rebored, these engines can last even longer.
• Every Kohler engine is backed by a worldwide network of over 10,000 distributors and dealers. Service
support is just a phone call away. Call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. & Canada) for Sales & Service assistance.
To keep your engine in top operating condition, follow the aintenance procedures in this anual.

4
Air Cleaner
Fuel
Shut-Off
Retractable Starter
Throttle Lever
Oil Drain Plug
Oil Filter
Oil Sentry™
(Optional)
Choke Lever
Fuel Tank
Figure 1. Typical Command Horizontal Shaft Engine.
Oil Recommendation
Using the proper type and weight of oil in the
crankcase is extre ely i portant. So is checking oil
daily and changing oil regularly. Failure to use the
correct oil, or using dirty oil, causes pre ature engine
wear and failure.
Oil Type
Use high quality detergent oil of API (American
Petroleum In titute) ervice cla SG, SH, SJ or
higher. Select the viscosity based on the air
te perature at the ti e of operation as shown in the
following table.
A logo or sy bol on oil containers identifies the API
service class and SAE viscosity grade. See Figure 3.
*
**
*Use of synthetic oil having 5W-20 or 5W-30 rating is
acceptable, up to 40°F.
**Synthetic oils will provide better starting in extre e
cold (below -10°F).
Figure 2. Vi co ity Grade Table.
NOTE: Using other than service class SG, SH, SJ or
higher oil or extending oil change intervals
longer than reco ended can cause engine
da age.
Figure 3. Oil Container Logo.
Refer to “Maintenance In truction ” beginning on
page 8 for detailed oil check, oil change, and oil
filter change procedure .
Fuel Recommendation
WARNING: Explo ive Fuel!
Gasoline is extre ely fla able and its vapors can
explode if ignited. Store gasoline only in approved
containers, in well ventilated, unoccupied buildings,
away fro sparks or fla es. Do not fill the fuel tank
while the engine is hot or running, since spilled fuel
could ignite if it co es in contact with hot parts or
sparks fro ignition. Do not start the engine near
spilled fuel. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.
Muffler
Electric Starter
Oil Drain Plug
Oil Drain Plug
Oil Fill/Dip tick

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General Recommendation
Purchase gasoline in s all quantities and store in
clean, approved containers. A container with a capacity
of 2 gallons or less with a pouring spout is
reco ended. Such a container is easier to handle
and helps eli inate spillage during refueling.
Do not use gasoline left over fro the previous season,
to ini ize gu deposits in your fuel syste and to
insure easy starting.
Do not add oil to the gasoline.
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Leave roo for the fuel to
expand.
Fuel Type
For best results use only clean, fresh, unleaded
gasoline with a pu p sticker octane rating of 87 or
higher. In countries using the Research ethod, it
should be 90 octane ini u .
Unleaded gasoline is reco ended as it leaves less
co bustion cha ber deposits. Leaded gasoline ay
be used in areas where unleaded is not available and
exhaust e issions are not regulated. Be aware
however, that the cylinder head will require ore
frequent service.
Ga oline/Alcohol blend
Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded
gasoline by volu e) is approved as a fuel for Kohler
engines. Other gasoline/alcohol blends are not
approved.
Ga oline/Ether blend
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded
gasoline blends (up to a axi u of 15% MTBE by
volu e) are approved as a fuel for Kohler engines.
Other gasoline/ether blends are not approved.
Engine Identification Number
When ordering parts, or in any co unication
involving an engine, always give the Model,
Specification, and Serial Number of the engine.
The engine identification nu bers appear on a decal
affixed to the engine shrouding. Include letter suffixes,
if there are any.
Record your engine identification nu bers on the
identification label (Figure 4) for future reference.
Figure 4. Engine Identification Label.
The E ission Co pliance Period referred to on the
E ission Control or Air Index label indicates the
nu ber of operating hours for which the engine has
been shown to eet Federal and CARB e ission
require ents. The following table provides the Engine
Co pliance Period (in hours) associated with the
category descriptor found on the certification label.
Emi ion Compliance Period (Hour )
Refer to certification label for engine displace ent.
Exhaust E ission Control Syste for odels
CH11,12.5,13,14,15,16 is EM.
EPA
CARB
Category C
250 Hours
Moderate
125 Hours
Category B
500 Hours
Inter ediate
250 Hours
Category A
1000 Hours
Extended
500 Hours
*Small Off-Road Engine
IMPORTANT ENGINE INFORMATION
THIS ENGINE MEETS U.S. EPA 2004 AND
CALIFORNIA 2006 AND LATER EMISSION
CONTROL REGULATIONS FOR SI SORE*
FAMILY
DISPL. (CC)
MODEL NO.
SPEC. NO.
SERIAL NO.
EMISSION COMPLIANCE PERIOD:
EPA: CARB:
KOHLER CO. KOHLER, WISCONSIN USA
THIS ENGINE IS CERTIFIED TO OPERATE
ON:
REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR SAFETY,
MAINTENANCE SPECS AND ADJUSTMENTS.
FOR SALES/SERVICE IN US/CANADA, CALL:
1-800-544-2444
www.kohlerengines.co
N11236

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Pre-Start Checkli t
• Check oil level. Add oil if low. Do not overfill.
• Check fuel level. Add fuel if low.
• Check cooling air intake areas and external
surfaces of engine. Make sure they are clean and
unobstructed.
• Check that the air cleaner co ponents and all
shrouds, equip ent covers, and guards are in
place and securely fastened.
• Check that any clutches or trans issions are
disengaged or placed in neutral. This is especially
i portant on equip ent with hydrostatic drive. The
shift lever ust be exactly in neutral to prevent
resistance which could keep the engine fro
starting.
WARNING: Lethal Exhau t Ga e !
Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon
onoxide. Carbon onoxide is odorless, colorless,
and can cause death if inhaled. Avoid inhaling exhaust
fu es, and never run the engine in a closed building or
confined area.
Cold Weather Starting Hint
1. Be sure to use the proper oil for the te perature
expected. See Figure 2 on page 4.
2. Declutch all possible external loads.
3. A war battery has uch ore starting capacity
than a cold battery.
4. Use fresh winter grade fuel. NOTE: Winter grade
gasoline has higher volatility to i prove starting.
Do not use gasoline left over fro su er.
Starting
1. For a Cold Engine – Place the throttle control
midway between the “ low” and “fa t” positions.
Place the choke control into the “on” position.
For a Warm Engine (normal operating
temperature ) – Place the throttle/choke control
midway between the “ low” and “fa t”
positions. Place the choke into the “on” position.
See Figure 5.
Choke
Off — On
Throttle
Fa t
On
Figure 5. Throttle and Choke Po ition for Starting
Engine.
2. Start the engine as follows:
For a Retractable Start Engine – SLOWLY pull
the starter handle until just past co pression –
STOP! Return starter handle, pull fir ly with a
s ooth, steady otion to start. Pull the handle
straight out to avoid excessive rope wear fro the
starter rope guide.
Extend the starting rope periodically and check its
condition. If the rope is frayed, have it replaced
i ediately by your Kohler Engine Service
Dealer.
WARNING: Accidental Start !
Before extending and checking the retractable starter
rope, re ove the spark plug lead to prevent the engine
fro starting accidentally. Make sure the equip ent is
in neutral.
Operating In truction
Also read the operating instructions of the equip ent this engine powers.

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For an Electric Start Engine – Activate the
starter switch. Release the switch as soon as the
engine starts.
NOTE: Do not crank the engine continuously for
ore than 10 seconds at a ti e. If the
engine does not start, allow a 60 second
cool down period between starting
atte pts. Failure to follow these
guidelines can burn out the starter otor.
NOTE: Upon start-up, a etallic ticking ay
occur. This is caused by hydraulic lifter
leakdown during storage. Run the engine
for 5 inutes. The noise will nor ally
cease in the first inute. If noise
continues, run the engine at id-throttle
for 20 inutes. If noise persists, take the
engine to your local Kohler Service outlet.
NOTE: If the engine develops sufficient speed to
disengage the starter but does not keep
running (a false start), engine rotation
ust be allowed to co e to a co plete
stop before atte pting to restart the
engine. If the starter is engaged while the
flywheel is rotating, the starter pinion and
flywheel ring gear ay clash, resulting in
da age to the starter.
If the starter does not turn the engine over, shut
off starter i ediately. Do not ake further
atte pts to start the engine until the condition is
corrected. Do not ju p start using another battery
(refer to “Battery”). See your Kohler Engine
Service Dealer for trouble analysis.
3. For a Cold Engine – Gradually return the choke
control to the “off” position after the engine starts
and war s ups.
The engine/equip ent ay be operated during
the war up period, but it ay be necessary to
leave the choke partially on until the engine war s
up.
4. For a Warm Engine – Return choke to “off”
position as soon as engine starts.
Stopping
1. Re ove the load by disengaging all PTO
attach ents.
2a. For engine without a hutdown olenoid:
Move the throttle to the ‘‘ low’’ or ‘‘low’’ idle
position. Allow the engine to run at idle for 30-60
seconds; then stop the engine.
b. For engine equipped with a hutdown
olenoid: Position the throttle control so ewhere
between half and full throttle; then stop the engine.
Battery
A 12 volt battery is nor ally used. Refer to the
operating instructions of the equip ent this engine
powers for specific battery require ents.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the
engine, recharge the battery (see page 12).
Operating
Angle of Operation
This engine will operate continuously at angles up to
25°. Check oil level to assure crankcase oil level is at
the “F” ark.
Refer to the operating instructions of the equip ent this
engine powers. Because of equip ent design or
application, there ay be ore stringent restrictions
regarding the angle of operation.
NOTE: Do not operate this engine continuously at
angles exceeding 25° in any direction. Engine
da age could result fro insufficient
lubrication.
Cooling
NOTE: If debris builds up on the grass screen or other
cooling air intake areas, stop the engine
i ediately and clean. Operating the engine
with blocked or dirty air intake and cooling
areas can cause extensive da age due to
overheating.
WARNING: Hot Part !
Engine co ponents can get extre ely hot fro
operation. To prevent severe burns, do not touch these
areas while the engine is running–or i ediately after it
is turned off. Never operate the engine with heat
shields or guards re oved.
Engine Speed
NOTE: Do not ta per with the governor setting to
increase the axi u engine speed.
Overspeed is hazardous and will void the
engine warranty.

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Maintenance In truction
Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emi ion control device and y tem , which are being done at
the cu tomer expen e, may be performed by any non-road engine repair e tabli hment or individual.
Warranty repair mu t be performed by an authorized Kohler ervice outlet.
WARNING: Accidental Start !
Di abling engine. Accidental tarting can cau e evere injury or death. Before working on the engine or
equip ent, disable the engine as follows: 1) Disconnect the spark plug lead(s). 2) Disconnect negative (-) battery
cable fro battery.
Maintenance Schedule
These required aintenance procedures should be perfor ed at the frequency stated in the table. They should
also be included as part of any seasonal tune-up.
¹Perfor these aintenance procedures ore frequently under extre ely dusty, dirty conditions.
²Have a Kohler Engine Service Dealer perfor this service.
Check Oil Level
The i portance of checking and aintaining the proper
oil level in the crankcase cannot be overe phasized.
Check oil BEFORE EACH USE as follows:
1. Make sure the engine is stopped, level, and is
cool so the oil has had ti e to drain into the su p.
2. To keep dirt, grass clippings, etc., out of the
engine, clean the area around the oil fill cap/
dipstick before re oving it.
3. Re ove the oil fill cap/dipstick; wipe oil off.
For engine with a pre -on tyle dip tick:
Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and press onto
the tube. See Figure 6.
For engine with a thread-on tyle dip tick:
Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and rest the oil
fill cap on the tube. Do not thread the cap onto the
tube. See Figure 6.
Figure 6. Dip tick Style .
Daily or Before
Starting Engine
Maintenance RequiredFrequency
• Fill fuel tank.
• Check oil level.
• Check air cleaner for dirty¹, loose, or da aged parts.
• Check air intake and cooling areas, clean as necessary¹.
• Service precleaner ele ent¹.
Every 25 Hour
• Replace air cleaner ele ent¹.
• Change oil.
• Re ove cooling shrouds and clean cooling areas¹.
Every 100 Hour
• Change oil filter.
• Check spark plug condition and gap.
Every 200 Hour
Annually or
Every 500 Hour
• Have bendix starter drive serviced².
• Have solenoid shift starter disasse bled and cleaned2.
Every 50 Hour • Check gear reduction unit.
Pre -On Thread-On

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4. Re ove the dipstick and check the oil level.
The oil level should be up to, but not over, the “F”
ark on the dipstick. See Figure 7.
Figure 7. Oil Level Dip tick.
5. If the level is low, add oil of the proper type, up to
the “F” ark on the dipstick. (Refer to “Oil Type”
on page 4.) Always check the level with the
dipstick before adding ore oil.
NOTE: To prevent extensive engine wear or
da age, always aintain the proper oil
level in the crankcase. Never operate the
engine with the oil level below the “L”
ark or over the “F” ark on the dipstick.
Oil Sentry™
So e engines are equipped with an optional Oil
Sentry™ oil pressure switch. If the oil pressure
decreases below an acceptable level, the Oil Sentry™
will either shut off the engine or activate a warning
signal, depending on the application.
NOTE: Make sure the oil level is checked BEFORE
EACH USE and is aintained up to the “F”
ark on the dipstick. This includes engines
equipped with Oil Sentry™.
Change Oil and Oil Filter
Change Oil
Change oil after every 100 hour of operation. Refill
with service class SG, SH, SJ or higher oil as specified
in the “Viscosity Grades” table (Figure 2) on page 4.
Change the oil while the engine is still war . The oil
will flow ore freely and carry away ore i purities.
Make sure the engine is level when filling, checking, or
changing the oil.
Change the oil as follows (see Figure 8):
1. To keep dirt, grass clippings, etc., out of the
engine, clean the area around the oil fill cap/
disptick before re oving it.
2. Re ove the oil drain plug and oil fill cap/dipstick.
Be sure to allow a ple ti e for co plete
drainage.
3. Reinstall the drain plug. Make sure it is tightened
to 13.6 N·m (10 ft. lb.) torque.
4. Fill the crankcase, with new oil, of the proper type,
to the “F” ark on the dipstick. Refer to “Oil Type”
on page 4. Always check the level with the dipstick
before adding ore oil.
5. Reinstall the oil fill cap or plug and tighten
securely.
NOTE: To prevent extensive engine wear or
da age, always aintain the proper oil
level in the crankcase. Never operate the
engine with the oil level below the “L”
ark or over the “F” ark on the dipstick.
Operating
Range
“F” Mark
Oil
Sentry™
(Optional)
Oil Filter
Figure 8. Oil Filter and Optional Oil Sentry™ Switch.

10
Change Oil Filter
Replace the oil filter at lea t every other oil change
(every 200 hour of operation). Always use a
genuine Kohler oil filter, Part No. 52 050 02-S.
Replace the oil filter as follows:
1. Drain the oil fro the engine crankcase.
2. Allow the oil filter to drain.
3. Before re oving the oil filter, clean the area
around the oil filter to keep dirt and debris out of
the engine. Re ove the old filter. Wipe off the
surface where the oil filter ounts.
4. Place a new replace ent filter in a shallow pan
with the open end up. Pour new oil of the proper
type in through the threaded center hole. Stop
pouring when the oil reaches the botto of the
threads. Allow a inute or two for the oil to be
absorbed by the filter aterial.
5. Put a drop of oil on your fingertip and wipe it on
the rubber gasket.
6. Install the replace ent oil filter to the filter adapter.
Turn the oil filter clockwise until the rubber gasket
contacts the filter adapter, then tighten the filter an
additional 2/3 to 1 turn.
7. Reinstall the drain plug.
8. Fill the crankcase with new oil of the proper type
to the ‘‘F’’ ark on the dipstick.
9. Start the engine and check for oil leaks. Correct
any leaks before placing the engine into service.
Check oil level to be sure it is up to but not over
the “F” ark.
Service Precleaner and Air Cleaner Element
This engine is equipped with a replaceable, high
density paper air cleaner ele ent. Most engines are
also equipped with an oiled, foa precleaner which
surrounds the paper ele ent. See Figures 9 and 10.
Figure 9. Air Cleaner Hou ing Component .
Air Cleaner Ba e
Element Cover Nut
Foam Precleaner
Paper
Element
Element
Cover
Figure 10. Air Cleaner Element .
Check the air cleaner daily or before tarting the
engine. Check for a buildup of dirt and debris around
the air cleaner syste . Keep this area clean. Also
check for loose or da aged co ponents. Replace all
bent or da aged air cleaner co ponents.
NOTE: Operating the engine with loose or da aged
air cleaner co ponents could allow unfiltered
air into the engine causing pre ature wear
and failure.
Service Precleaner
Wash and reoil the precleaner every 25 hour of
operation, ( ore often under extre ely dusty or dirty
conditions).
1. Loosen the air cleaner cover knob and re ove the
cover.
2. Re ove the precleaner fro the paper ele ent.
3. Wash the precleaner in war water with
detergent. Rinse the precleaner thoroughly until all
traces of detergent are eli inated. Squeeze out
excess water (do not wring). Allow precleaner to
air dry.
Air Cleaner
Cover
Knob

11
4. Saturate the precleaner with new engine oil.
Squeeze out all excess oil.
5. Reinstall the precleaner over the paper ele ent.
6. Reinstall the air cleaner cover and tighten the
knob securely.
7. When precleaner replace ent is necessary order
Part No. 52 083 01-S.
Service Paper Element
Every 100 hour of operation ( ore often under
extre ely dusty or dirty conditions), replace the paper
ele ent.
1. Loosen the air cleaner cover knob and re ove the
cover. Re ove the wing nut and then re ove the
air cleaner ele ent with precleaner. Re ove the
precleaner fro the ele ent and service as
necessary.
2. Do not wash the paper ele ent or u e
pre urized air, as this will da age the ele ent.
Replace a dirty, bent, or da aged ele ent with a
genuine Kohler ele ent. Handle new ele ents
carefully; do not use if the sealing surfaces are
bent or da aged.
3. When servicing the air cleaner, check the air
cleaner base. Make sure it is secured and not
bent or da aged. Also check the ele ent cover
for da age or i proper fit. Replace all da aged
air cleaner co ponents.
4. Reinstall all co ponents as described above.
5. When air cleaner ele ent replace ent is
necessary order Part No. 47 083 01-S.
Clean Air Intake/Cooling Area
To ensure proper cooling, ake sure the grass screen,
cooling fins, and other external surfaces of the engine
are kept clean at all time .
Every 100 hour of operation ( ore often under
extre ely dusty, dirty conditions), re ove the blower
housing and other cooling shrouds. Clean the cooling
fins and external surfaces as necessary. Make sure
the cooling shrouds are reinstalled.
NOTE: Operating the engine with a blocked grass
screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or
cooling shrouds re oved, will cause engine
da age due to overheating.
Ignition Sy tem
This engine is equipped with a dependable electronic
agneto ignition syste . Other than periodically
checking/replacing the spark plug, no aintenance,
ti ing, or adjust ents are necessary or possible with
this syste .
In the event starting proble s should occur which are
not corrected by replacing the spark plugs, see your
Kohler Engine Service Dealer for trouble analysis.
Check Spark Plug
Every 200 hour of operation, re ove the spark plug,
check its condition, and reset the gap or replace with a
new plug as necessary. The standard spark plug is a
Cha pion® RC12YC (Kohler Part No. 12 132 02-S). A
high-perfor ance spark plug, Cha pion® Pre iu Gold
2071 (used on Pro Series engines, Kohler Part No.
12 132 06-S), is also available. Equivalent alternate
brand plugs can also be used.
1. Before re oving the spark plug, clean the area
around the base of the plug to keep dirt and debris
out of the engine.
2. Re ove the plug and check its condition. Replace
the plug if worn or reuse is questionable.
NOTE: Do not clean the spark plug in a achine
using abrasive grit. So e grit could re ain
in the spark plug and enter the engine
causing extensive wear and da age.
3. Check the gap using a wire feeler gauge. Adjust
the gap by carefully bending the ground electrode.
See Figure 11. Gap CH11-15 plugs to 1.02
(0.040 in.). Gap CH16 plugs to 0.76 (0.030 in.)
Figure 11. Servicing Spark Plug.
Wire Gauge
Spark Plug
Gap
Ground
Electrode

12
4. Reinstall the spark plug into the cylinder head.
Torque the spark plug to 38.0-43.4 N·m
(28-32 ft. lb.).
Battery Charging
WARNING: Explo ive Ga !
Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas while being
charged. To prevent a fire or explosion, charge
batteries only in well ventilated areas. Keep sparks,
open fla es, and other sources of ignition away fro
the battery at all ti es. Keep batteries out of the reach
of children. Re ove all jewelry when servicing
batteries.
Before disconnecting the negative (-) ground cable,
ake sure all switches are OFF. If ON, a spark will
occur at the ground cable ter inal which could cause
an explosion if hydrogen gas or gasoline vapors are
present.
Fuel Filter
So e engines are equipped with an in-line fuel filter.
Periodically inspect the filter and replace when dirty.
Use a genuine Kohler filter.
Reduction Gear Unit
On engines equipped with a reduction gear unit,
re ove the oil plug on lower part of cover every 50
hour of operation to check oil level. With the engine
level, the oil level of the unit should be up to the botto
of the oil plug hole. To add oil, re ove the vented plug
at the top of the unit. Use AGMA No. 7 EP oil in the
reduction gear unit. Following are a few products that
eet this spec:
Mobilgear 634
Pennzoil Super Maxol ‘‘S’’
Pennzoil Maxol EP Gear Oil
Pennzoil Super Maxol EP Gear Oil
Pennzoil Super Pennztac EP Gear Oil
Carburetor Trouble hooting
and Adju tment
NOTE: Carburetor adjust ents should be ade only
after the engine has war ed up.
These engines are equipped with one of two basic
types of fixed jet carburetors – Walbro or Nikki.
The carburetor is designed to deliver the correct
fuel-to-air ixture to the engine under all operating
conditions. On both types of carburetors, the fixed ain
jet is calibrated at the factory and is not adjustable. On
Walbro carburetors, the low idle fuel adjusting needle is
set at the factory and nor ally does not need
adjust ent. Certified engines ay have a fixed idle or
li iter cap on the idle fuel adjusting needle. The idle
fuel can only be adjusted within the li its allowed by
the cap. Nikki carburetors have a sealed idle fuel
adjusting needle which is not adjustable.
Figure 12. Carburetor .
NOTE: To ensure correct engine operation at
altitudes above 1525 eters (5000 ft.), it ay
be necessary to have an authorized Kohler
dealer install a special high-altitude jet kit in
the carburetor. If a high-altitude kit has been
installed, the engine ust be reconverted to
the original jet size, before it is operated at
lower altitudes, or overheating and engine
da age can result.
Trouble hooting
If engine troubles are experienced that appear to be
fuel syste related, check the following areas before
adjusting the carburetor.
• Make sure the fuel tank is filled with clean, fresh
gasoline.
• Make sure the fuel tank cap vent is not blocked
and that it is operating properly.
• If the fuel tank is equipped with a shut-off valve,
ake sure it is open.
• If the engine is equipped with an in-line fuel filter,
ake sure it is clean and unobstructed. Replace
the filter if necessary.
Walbro
Low Idle
Speed Adj.
Screw
Low Idle
Fuel Adj.
Needle
Nikki
Low Idle
Speed Adj.
Screw

13
• Make sure fuel is reaching the carburetor. This
includes checking the fuel lines and fuel pu p for
restrictions or faulty co ponents, replace as
necessary.
• Make sure the air cleaner ele ent is clean and all
air cleaner co ponents are fastened securely.
If, after checking the ite s listed above, the engine is
hard to start, runs roughly, or stalls at low idle speed, it
ay be necessary to adjust or service the carburetor.
Carburetor Adju tment
NOTE: Certified engines ay have a fixed idle or
li iter cap on the idle fuel adjusting needle.
Step 2 can only be perfor ed within the li its
allowed by the cap.
1. Start the engine and run at half throttle for 5 to 10
inutes to war up. The engine ust be war
before doing steps 2 and 3.
2. Low Idle Fuel Needle Setting: Place the throttle
into the “idle” or “ low” position.
Turn the low idle fuel adjusting needle out
(counterclockwise) fro the preli inary setting
until engine speed decreases (rich). Note the
position of the needle.
Now turn the adjusting needle in (clockwise). The
engine speed ay increase, then it will decrease
as the needle is turned in (lean). Note the position
of the needle.
Figure 13. Optimum Low Idle Fuel Setting.
3. Low Idle Speed Setting: Place the throttle control
into the “idle” or “ low” position. Set the low idle
speed to 1200 RPM* (± 75 RPM) by turning the
low idle speed adjusting screw in or out. Check
the speed using a tacho eter.
*NOTE: The actual low idle speed depends on the
application – refer to equip ent
anufacturer’s reco endations. The
reco ended low idle speed for basic
engines is 1200 RPM. To ensure best
results when setting the low idle fuel
needle, the low idle speed ust not
exceed 1200 RPM (± 75 RPM).
Trouble hooting
When troubles occur, be sure to check the si ple causes which, at first, ay see to obvious to be considered.
For exa ple, a starting proble could be caused by an e pty fuel tank. So e co on causes of engine troubles
are listed in the following table.
Do not atte pt to service or replace ajor engine co ponents, or any ite s that require special ti ing or
adjust ent procedures. Have your Kohler Engine Service Dealer do this work.
Set the adjusting needle idway between the rich
and lean settings. See Figure 13.
Po ible Cau e No Improper Dirt In Dirty Incorrect Engine Dirty Air Faulty
Problem Fuel Fuel Fuel Line Gra Screen Oil Level Overloaded Cleaner Spark Plug
Will Not Start •• • • • • •
Hard Starting •• • • ••
Stop Suddenly • •••••
Lack Power •••••••
Operate Erratically ••• • ••
Knock or Ping •• • •
Skip or Mi fire ••• ••
Backfire ••••
Overheat •• • • •
High Fuel Con umption •••
Lean
Rich
Adju t to
Midpoint

14
Storage
If the engine will be out of service for two onths or
ore, use the following storage procedure:
1. Clean the exterior surfaces of the engine.
2. Change the oil and filter while the engine is still
war fro operation. See “Change Oil and Oil
Filter” on page 9.
3. The fuel syste ust be co pletely e ptied, or
the gasoline ust be treated with a stabilizer to
prevent deterioration. If you choose to use a
stabilizer, follow the anufacturers
reco endations, and add the correct a ount for
the capacity of the fuel syste . Fill the fuel tank
with clean, fresh gasoline. Run the engine for 2-3
inutes to get stabilized fuel into the carburetor.
To e pty the syste , run the engine until the fuel
tank and syste are e pty.
4. Re ove the spark plug. Add one tablespoon of
engine oil into the spark plug hole. Install the plug,
but do not connect the plug lead. Crank the engine
two or three revolutions.
5. Re ove the spark plug. Cover the spark plug hole
with your thu b, and turn the engine over until the
piston is at the top of its stroke. (Pressure against
thu b is greatest.) Reinstall the plug, but do not
connect the plug lead.
6. Store the engine in a clean, dry place.
Part Ordering
The engine Model, Specification, and Serial Nu bers
are required when ordering replace ent parts fro
your Kohler Engine Service Dealer. These nu bers are
found on the identification plate which is affixed to the
engine shrouding. Include letter suffixes if there are
any. See “Engine Identification Nu bers” on page 5.
Always insist on genuine Kohler parts. All genuine
Kohler parts eet strict standards for fit, reliability, and
perfor ance.
Major Repair
Major repair infor ation is available in Kohler Engine
Service Manuals. However, ajor repair generally
requires the attention of a trained echanic and the
use of special tools and equip ent. Your Kohler
Engine Service Dealer has the facilities, training, and
genuine Kohler replace ent parts necessary to
perfor this service. For Sales & Service assistance
call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. & Canada) or contact your
Kohler Engine Dealer or Service Distributor, they're in
the Yellow Pages under Engines-Gasoline.
Model De ignation
Model CH15ST for exa ple: C designates Co and
engine, H designates horizontal crankshaft, and 15
designates horsepower. A letter suffix designates a
specific version as follows:
Suffix De ignate
S Electric Start
T Retractable Start
ST Electric/Retractable Start
GT Generator Application/Retractable Start
GS Generator Application/Electric Start
PT Pu p/Retractable Start
RT Gear Reduction/Retractable Start
Specification
Model: ................................................... CH11 .............. CH12.5 ........... CH13 ............... CH14 .............. CH15/CH16**
Bore: .................................. (in.) ... 87 (3.43) ......... 87 (3.43) ......... 87 (3.43) ......... 87 (3.43) ......... 90 (3.55)/90 (3.55)
Stroke: ................................ (in.) ... 67 (2.64) ......... 67 (2.64) ......... 67 (2.64) ......... 67 (2.64) ......... 67 (2.64)/67 (2.64)
Displace ent: .................... c 3 (in3) ... 398 (24.3) ....... 398 (24.3) ....... 398 (24.3) ....... 398 (24.3) ....... 426 (26.0)/426 (26.0)
Power (@3600 RPM): ....... kW (HP) ... 8.2 (11*).......... 9.33 (12.5*) ..... 9.75 (13*) ........ 10.50 (14*) ..... 11.2 (15*)/11.9 (16*)
Max. Torque (@ RPM): ............ ft. lb. ... 20.2 @2000 ... 20.5 @2500 .... 20.5 @2500 .... 21.3 @2500 ... 24.5 @2400/25 @2400
Co pression Ratio: .............................. 8.5:1 ............... 8.5:1 ................ 8.5:1 ................ 8.5:1 ............... 8.5:1/8.5:1
Weight: .................................kg (lb.) ... 40 (88.3) ......... 40 (88.3) ......... 40 (88.3) ......... 40 (88.3) ......... 40 (88.3)/40 (88.3)
Oil Capacity (w/filter): .... L (U.S. pt.) ... 1.9 (4) ............. 1.9 (4) ............. 1.9 (4) .............. 1.9 (4) ............. 1.9 (4)/1.9 (4)
Lubrication: ........................................... Full Pressure w/full Flow Filter
Exhaust E ission Control Syste for CH11,12.5,13,14,15,16 is EM.
*Horsepower ratings are established in accordance with Society of Auto otive Engineers – S all Engine Test Code – J1995
GROSS. Kohler Co. reserves the right to change product specifications, design, and standard equip ent without notice and
without incurring obligation.
**CH16 engine is equipped with S art Spark™ co puterized ignition syste .

15
LIMITED 2 YEAR COMMAND ENGINE WARRANTY
We warrant to the original consu er that each new COMMAND engine sold by us will be free fro anufacturing defects in aterials or
work anship in nor al service for a period of two (2) years fro date of purchase, provided it is operated and aintained in accordance
with Kohler Co.’s instructions and anuals.
Our obligation under this warranty is expressly li ited, at our option, to the replace ent or repair at Kohler Co., Kohler, Wisconsin 53044,
or at a service facility designated by us of such parts as inspection shall disclose to have been defective.
EXCLUSIONS:
Mufflers on engines used co ercially (non-residential) are warranted for one (1) year fro date of purchase, except catalytic ufflers,
which are warranted for two (2) years.
This warranty does not apply to defects caused by casualty or unreasonable use, including faulty repairs by others and failure to provide
reasonable and necessary aintenance.
The following ite s are not covered by this warranty:
Engine accessories such as fuel tanks, clutches, trans issions, power-drive asse blies, and batteries, unless supplied or installed by
Kohler Co. These are subject to the warranties, if any, of their anufacturers.
WE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, including but
not li ited to labor costs or transportation charges in connection with the repair or replace ent of defective parts.
ANY IMPLIED OR STATUARY WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, ARE EXPRESSLY LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THIS WRITTEN WARRANTY. We ake no other express warranty, nor
is any one authorized to ake any in our behalf.
So e states do not allow li itations on how long an i plied warranty lasts, or the exclusion or li itation of incidental or consequential
da ages, so the above li itation or exclusion ay not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you ay also have other rights which vary fro state to state.
TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE:
Purchaser ust bring the engine to an authorized Kohler service facility. For the facility nearest you, consult your Yellow Pages or write
Kohler Co., Attn: Engine Warranty Service Dept., Kohler, Wisconsin, 53044.
ENGINE DIVISION, KOHLER CO., KOHLER, WISCONSIN 53044
KOHLER CO.
FEDERAL AND CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS
LIMITED WARRANTY
SMALL OFF-ROAD ENGINES
The U.S. Environ ental Protection Agency (EPA), the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and Kohler Co. are pleased to explain the
Federal and California E ission Control Syste s Warranty on your s all off-road equip ent engine (herein engine). For California,
engines produced in 1995 and later ust be designed, built and equipped to eet the state’s stringent anti-s og standards. In other states,
1997 and later odel year engines ust be designed, built and equipped, to eet the U.S. EPA regulations for s all non-road engines.
The engine ust be free fro defects in aterials and work anship which cause it to fail to confor with U.S. EPA standards for the first
two years of engine use fro the date of sale to the ulti ate purchaser. Kohler Co. ust warrant the e ission control syste on the engine
for the period of ti e listed above, provided there has been no abuse, neglect or i proper aintenance.
The e ission control syste ay include parts such as the carburetor or fuel injection syste , the ignition syste , and catalytic converter.
Also included are the hoses, belts and connectors and other e ission related asse blies.
Where a warrantable condition exists, Kohler Co. will repair the engine at no cost, including diagnosis (if the diagnostic work is perfor ed at
an authorized dealer), parts and labor.
MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY COVERAGE
Engines produced in 1995 or later are warranted for two years in California. In other states, 1997 and later odel year engines are
warranted for two years. If any e ission related part on the engine is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by Kohler Co. free of
charge.
OWNER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES
(a) The engine owner is responsible for the perfor ance of the required aintenance listed in the owner’s anual. Kohler Co.
reco ends that you retain all receipts covering aintenance on the engine, But Kohler Co. cannot deny warranty solely for the lack
of receipts or for your failure to assure that all scheduled aintenance was perfor ed.
(b) Be aware, however, that Kohler Co. ay deny warranty coverage if the engine or a part has failed due to abuse, neglect, i proper
aintenance or unapproved odifications. Continued on next page.

(c) For warranty repairs, the engine ust be presented to a Kohler Co. service center as soon as a proble exists. Call 1-800-544-2444,
or access our web site at: www.kohlerengines.co for the na es of the nearest service centers. The warranty repairs should be
co pleted in a reasonable a ount of ti e, not to exceed 30 days.
If you have any questions regarding warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact Kohler Co. at 1-920-457-4441 and ask for an
Engine Service representative.
COVERAGE
Kohler Co. warrants to the ulti ate purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that the engine will be designed, built and equipped, at the
ti e of sale, to eet all applicable regulations. Kohler Co. also warrants to the initial purchaser and each subsequent purchaser, that the
engine is free fro defects in aterials and work anship which cause the engine to fail to confor with applicable regulations for a period
of two years.
Engines produced in 1995 or later are warranted for two years in California. For 1997 and later odel years, EPA requires anufacturers to
warrant engines for two years in all other states. These warranty periods will begin on the date the engine is purchased by the initial
purchaser. If any e ission related part on the engine is defective, the part will be replaced by Kohler Co. at no cost to the owner. Kohler
Co. is liable for da ages to other engine co ponents caused by the failure of a warranted part still under warranty.
Kohler Co. shall re edy warranty defects at any authorized Kohler Co. engine dealer or warranty station. Warranty repair work done at an
authorized dealer or warranty station shall be free of charge to the owner if such work deter ines that a warranted part is defective.
Listed below are the parts covered by the Federal and California E ission Control Syste s Warranty. So e parts listed below ay require
scheduled aintenance and are warranted up to the first scheduled replace ent point for that part. The warranted parts are:
•Oxygen sensor (if equipped) •Ignition odule(s) with high tension lead
•Intake anifold (if equipped) •Gaseous fuel regulator (if equipped)
•Exhaust anifold (if equipped) •Electronic control unit (if equipped)
•Catalytic uffler (if equipped) •Carburetor or fuel injection syste
•Fuel etering valve (if equipped) •Fuel lines (if equipped)
•Spark advance odule (if equipped) •Air filter, fuel filter, and spark plugs (only
•Crankcase breather to first scheduled replace ent point)
LIMITATIONS
This E ission Control Syste s Warranty shall not cover any of the following:
(a) repair or replace ent required because of isuse or neglect, i proper aintenance, repairs i properly perfor ed or replace ents
not confor ing to Kohler Co. specifications that adversely affect perfor ance and/or durability and alterations or odifications not
reco ended or approved in writing by Kohler Co.,
(b) replace ent of parts and other services and adjust ents necessary for required aintenance at and after the first scheduled
replace ent point,
(c) consequential da ages such as loss of ti e, inconvenience, loss of use of the engine or equip ent, etc.,
(d) diagnosis and inspection fees that do not result in eligible warranty service being perfor ed, and
(e) any add-on or odified part, or alfunction of authorized parts due to the use of add-on or odified parts.
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR REQUIREMENTS
The owner is responsible for the proper use and aintenance of the engine. Kohler Co. reco ends that all receipts and records covering
the perfor ance of regular aintenance be retained in case questions arise. If the engine is resold during the warranty period, the
aintenance records should be transferred to each subsequent owner. Kohler Co. reserves the right to deny warranty coverage if the
engine has not been properly aintained; however, Kohler Co. ay not deny warranty repairs solely because of the lack of repair
aintenance or failure to keep aintenance records.
Nor al aintenance, replace ent or repair of e ission control devices and syste s ay be perfor ed by any repair establish ent or
individual; however, warranty repair mu t be performed by a Kohler authorized ervice center. Any replace ent part or service that is
equivalent in perfor ance and durability ay be used in non-warranty aintenance or repairs, and shall not reduce the warranty obligations
of the engine anufacturer.
LITHO IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.: TP-2473-E
ISSUED: 12/94
REVISED: 12/01
MAILED:
ENGINE DIVISION, KOHLER CO., KOHLER, WISCONSIN 53044
FOR SALES AND SERVICE INFORMATION
IN U.S. AND CANADA, CALL
1-800-544-2444