Will not start

[bwestbrook]

Have a kohler CV15s that will not start. It will turn over. I have good spark. I am getting fuel through the carb. Plug is getting wet. 60 psi compression. This mower was running but had to have starter rebuilt. Now won't start. What should compression be?

 

[Rivets]

Compression is a little low. I would like to see around 90. Try squirting a little oil in the cylinder to see if the compression goes up. If it does you know that you have a ring problem.

 

[bwestbrook]

That's what I was thinking closer to 90 but wasn't sure. I knew I had fuel and fire but didn't seem like I had much compression. Thanks I will try that tomorrow.

 

[bwestbrook]

Compression at best was 65 psi with oil in cylinder. This mower was running good except the starter problem. Even if compression is a little low a shot of carb cleaner should ignite should it not? I know I am getting spark also by testing with a spark tester.

 

[possum]

Your getting spark with the tester but are you getting spark through the plug?

 

[bwestbrook]

And how would I know for sure. I mean I know you can pull the plug and test it against the block but that doesn't accurately show how strong of a spark under compression. I guess I will have to use a different plug.

 

[KennyV]

The oil didn't raise the compression much... You may have a valve failing to close. Take the valve cover off and give the valves a look... :smile:KennyV

 

[redfish9]

OLD time test for that is the color of the spark,blue spark is good orange spark is weak.Could be plug,if not maybe coil

 

[Rivets]

Right now I would look for the low compression problem. Kenny is right check the valves first, make sure you have clearance.

 

[bwestbrook]

I will check valves but they are non adjustable. I will post back what I find.
As far as spark it is a good blue spark. Thanks for the responses guys.