Kohler 10 kw genny (Model 10e) hard to start

[Mikwallace]

Background:
1998 405 Aft Cabin

My generator has always been hard to start. It would take 20-30 seconds of starter operation to start the Generator. I never held the starter button for more than 10 seconds before I’d give a 3 second pause. Once started the generator worked as advertised.

Finally yesterday after 1.5 years of ownership I decided to fix it. Simple fix!

The choke needed adjusting.

Here’s a pic of the generator. I’ve an Ohm meter connected to the choke heater wire to check voltage.

IMG_7026.jpeg

Here’s the choke at cold temp. As you can see it’s not closed. I guess through the years of operation the spring gets weak and won’t close the choke completely?

IMG_7023.jpeg

And finally the voltage to the choke spring.

IMG_7025.jpeg

[waybomb]

Good job!

[km1125]

That choke thermostat element is adjustable, right (the three screws holding it in place?) I'd adjust so the choke closes all the way, then just hook 12VDC directly to it for about 5 min and see if it opens all the way.

If it doesn't, then you need to replace the choke thermostat element.

[Viper]

[g36]

Same genset in my 405 I had to do that at one time also. I marked it so I knew where I started if I ever needed to go back. Appreciate you posting it in case others need the info.

[bud37]

Thanks for posting......

[Mikwallace]

QR_BBPOST That choke thermostat element is adjustable, right (the three screws holding it in place?) I'd adjust so the choke closes all the way, then just hook 12VDC directly to it for about 5 min and see if it opens all the way.

If it doesn't, then you need to replace the choke thermostat element.

Yes, I did exactly that and it works great! I was a little suspicious that I might have to replace the 26 year old spring, but it worked fine. Even went back later to see if it closed after cooling and it did!