Kohler starting problem

[kelLOGg]

Initially, it fires right up but as a sawing day wears on my Kohler gets harder to start. I turn the ignition switch and the crankshaft rotates about 1/4 revolution and stops. I turn switch off, rotate by hand until the compression stroke begins and turn the ignition sw and it starts. I had the battery tested yesterday - not quite to specs but it delivered 150 amps at 13.2 volts so the battery has more life in it. Battery is 8 yo and I keep it charged constantly w/ a battery minder. What cause this and what to do about it?
Bob

[bandmiller2]

Bob, sounds like your engine is plugged with sawdust and running hot, heat soakes the electric starter. Remove  some of the cowling and check for mouse nests and blow out sawdust.Mayby your starter is dragging and needs rebuild. Frank C.

[poolman]

If jumper cables dont help then its not the battery.You wont know unless You try a jump when this is taking place.I have a 27 hp  and My battery went bad in 4 years.8 years is longer than most batteries could ever last.Maybe You are just a very lucky battery man to get 8 years or I am just unlucky.  Brian

[Hilltop366]

Also check and clean battery cables on both ends and large cable or lug from solenoid to starter. Sometimes batteries just don't have what it takes when starters and engines get older, try a boost when it happens or a different battery this might give you some more ideas.

[Kevin]

The only problem I've had with my Kohler is a faulty oil sensor.
I changed it and it still caused starting problems so I just leave the wire disconnected.

[Captain]

16-18hp single cylinder?  If no what is it?

Captain

[Skip]

I had the same problem with mine as Kevin come to find out oil sensor on 17 hp is SUPPOSed to be disconnected had no problems since . It acted same way started fine first thing then took an act of congress the rest of the day. Had a generator that acted same way was faulty oil sensor filled it up to top with oil, problem solved.

[kelLOGg]

Well, Hilltop366 may be right on target. I checked the battery cables and found that on the engine end they were loose - not finger loose - but another quarter revolution turn with a socket wrench snugged them tight. Over the years I guess they just worked loose. I'm sawing tomorrow and Sat and that will report findings afterwards.

Captain, my Kohler is 16 HP, 2 cylinder.
Bob

[kelLOGg]

Also check and clean battery cables on both ends and large cable or lug from solenoid to starter.

Hilltop366 wins the prize ;D. Sawed Fri & Sat and engine started w/o hesitation.

Bob

[weisyboy]

i have to take my starter off every ow and then and take it apart to get the sawdust out.

[Hilltop366]

Glad to here your mill is starting good again.
Now Bob, what was that prize you we talking about? ;D

[Chuck White]

The only problem I've had with my Kohler is a faulty oil sensor.
I changed it and it still caused starting problems so I just leave the wire disconnected.

Kevin; I'd like to make a suggestion for your oil sensor.  Install a momentary (NC) push-button switch in the line to the sensor.
Press the switch while starting and when you let up on the button, the low oil sensor will be back in operation.


Bob;  Glad to hear that you're back in operation!   

[kelLOGg]

Now Bob, what was that prize you we talking about? ;D

Before I retired from my day job if someone walked on water they got an "attaboy". So, Hilltop.... you've just been awarded one too.
Bob

[Hilltop366]

Thanks.... I'll take it.