Kohler electrical issue

ghost1

Well-Known Member
Joined
Mar 6, 2011
Threads
62
Messages
178
Recently rebuilt 24 hp Kohler. Will start and run fine, then one of the plugs (which are new) loose spark. Thought it might be a coil breaking down so they were switched but the problem stayed on the original side. Any direction would be appreciated.
 

Fish

Lawn Pro
Joined
Aug 2, 2013
Threads
11
Messages
5,145
Post your model and spec numbers, your engine may have SmartSpark, and they can be real squirrelly.
 

ghost1

Well-Known Member
Joined
Mar 6, 2011
Threads
62
Messages
178
Thanks for the reply Fish. CH26 is all I got as engine is old enough to have info rubbed from tag on cover. Hope that helps...
 

Fish

Lawn Pro
Joined
Aug 2, 2013
Threads
11
Messages
5,145
How many little terminals are on the coils, 1 or 2?
 

Fish

Lawn Pro
Joined
Aug 2, 2013
Threads
11
Messages
5,145
So you do have the Smart Spark, which have been known to be a lot of trouble. A member here named Rivets probably has the Kohler Manual on speed dial, maybe he could throw up the link, if not I'll dig around for it.

The most common problems when I have SmartSpark troubles, is not the SmartSpark box, or S.A.M. unit, but corroded wiring connections somewhere in the system. The dealer will quickly sell you the new S.A.M. unit, but they are non-returnable, and they cost $100ish.......

Just to speed things up, pull and look at the terminals on the back of the keyswitch for corrosion, as I have found that to be the petri dish for SmartSpark
trouble, as the unit needs voltage to the box, and it usually comes directly from here, and poor corroded connections make for some squirrelly symptoms.
 

ghost1

Well-Known Member
Joined
Mar 6, 2011
Threads
62
Messages
178
Again, Thanks Fish for the info,

As I had engine apart for rebuild and both had spark before, I would bet I failed to put something back together correctly. I just don't understand why sometimes spark, sometimes not. Definitely sounds like a connection issue. I'll remove engine in the morning and check my work and pull key panel to look for corrosion there. I have Kohler repair manual downloaded, and it does explain "Smart Spark", and SAM. Looks like fun.

Thanks again
 

Fish

Lawn Pro
Joined
Aug 2, 2013
Threads
11
Messages
5,145
Yes, the SmartSpark/S.A.M. unit has earned it's rep.
 

ghost1

Well-Known Member
Joined
Mar 6, 2011
Threads
62
Messages
178
Well, pulled cover off engine to check work and all wires attached correctly. Still only firing on one cylinder. Spark tester is showing spark, but it's hit or miss with not a very strong arc. Ignition modules were switched and issue continues to be on same side.. Running short on checklist if anybody can offer a suggestion..

Thanks
 

Fish

Lawn Pro
Joined
Aug 2, 2013
Threads
11
Messages
5,145
Just for fun.......

Remove both valve covers and take a peek, you will probably find something interesting.
 
Top