Kohler generator 10 ..diesel

[winedown]

Generator won't start...When we were at the dock, we started genny prior to going out on the water & it started & ran fine...Once out on the hook later that night, genny wouldn't start..We get a sort of humming noise when pressing switch..We have tried to start from the switch on the unit with same result..We have replaced the battery..Oil, coolant & water are fine..We replaced the impeller last year as it started but switched off after 10 mins or so...Over heating is not the problem this year...It just won't even start...I have read a lot of your posts..Circuit boards, solenoids, breaker, fuses ??..Thoughts ??

[KeithS]

Easier to give helpful advice if you post the model number. I'm guessing 10EOZD?

[tomschauer]

If its just a humming noise, could it be the starter not engaging?

[winedown]

I will check the exact model # on Friday...We were thinking maybe starter, solenoid , circuit board?..It doesn't start from the panel switch or the switch on the unit...Thx for your replies..

[edw]

Sounds like starter bendix quit. It is the thingy that moves into the engine when starting to connect starter when starting, then retracts when starter disengaged.

Some starters have bendix as integral part, other have replaceable bendix.

Let us know...might help someone else.

[winedown]

We have a tech working on it right now...He fiddled with a connection & it started, but now it doesn't..He is reviewing the wiring diagram from the manual & checking our wiring??..

[winedown]

Genny has started !!..Tech replaced a relay in the black box on top of genny & a connector to the starter..Trouble shooting lead towards circuit board but our tech did not think that was the problem and he was right !!..Hope this helps others with similar problems..Thx everyone for your advice..

[KeithS]

From your description you have a 10EOZ. On that model the circuit board sends a signal to the K20 relay (black square Bosch type) inside the controller. That sends the signal to the starter. The humming sound you heard was probably the electric fuel pump which you can't normally hear when the engine is cranking. Glad to see an easy fix! If it was the starter, that usually is not accessible without unbolting the generator and moving.