Compression Test; Cylinder Leakdown Test - Kohler HD Series Service Manual

Troubleshooting

COMPRESSION TEST

These engines are equipped with an automatic compression release (ACR) mechanism. It is diffi cult to obtain an
accurate compression reading because of ACR mechanism. As an alternative, use cylinder leakdown test described
below.

CYLINDER LEAKDOWN TEST

A cylinder leakdown test can be a valuable alternative to a compression test. By pressurizing combustion chamber
from an external air source you can determine if valves or rings are leaking, and how badly.
Cylinder leakdown tester is a relatively simple, inexpensive leakdown tester for small engines. This tester includes a
quick-connect for attaching adapter hose and a holding tool.
Dual Gauge Test Procedure
1. Run engine until oil temperature reaches and
maintains 150°F (66°C) or more for a minimum of 5
minutes. Ideally, engine should be run under normal
load conditions.
2. Remove spark plug(s) and air fi lter from engine.
3. Rotate crankshaft until piston (of cylinder being
tested) is at top dead center (TDC) of compression
stroke. Hold engine in this position while testing.
Holding tool from kit can be used if PTO end of
crankshaft is accessible. Lock holding tool onto
crankshaft. Install a 3/8 in. breaker bar into hole/slot
of holding tool, so it is perpendicular to both holding
tool and crankshaft PTO.
If fl ywheel end is more accessible, use a breaker bar
and socket on fl ywheel nut/screw to hold it in
position. An assistant may be needed to hold
breaker bar during testing. If engine is mounted in a
piece of equipment, it may be possible to hold it by
clamping or wedging a driven component. Just be
certain engine cannot rotate off TDC in either
direction.
4. Connect an air source (at least 100 PSI) to tool.
5. Turn regulator knob clockwise (increase direction).
Confi rm both gauges read approximately the same
air pressure from 0 to 80 PSI. Note any
discrepancies between gauges for leakage
calculation. Release pressure by turning regulator
knob completely counterclockwise before
proceeding.
6. Install adapter hose into spark plug hole of cylinder
being tested. Use 12 mm x 14 mm adapter if
required.
7. Firmly hold engine at TDC. Connect other end of
adapter hose to tool quick connect. Turn regulator
knob clockwise (increase direction) until left gauge
needle reads 20 PSI.
NOTE: When piston is at TDC, little to no holding force
should be required when air pressure is applied
to cylinder. If excess holding force is required,
this indicates piston is not at TDC. Readjust as
necessary before proceeding.
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8. Slowly turn regulator knob clockwise until left hand
gauge maintains selected test pressure (see chart
below).
Left Gauge Regulated Pressure Selection
80 PSI
Recommended for engines over 200 cc
or those exhibiting high leakage at 35 PSI setting.
35 PSI
Recommended for single cylinder
walk-behind push mower applications.
9. Compare right gauge reading to Test Pressure Chart
on next page to identify percentage of leakage. Also
refer to Leakdown Test Results chart on next page
for colors, conditions, and action required.
10. For engines exhibiting leakage in yellow or red zone,
repeat test procedure. Operate engine under normal
load conditions prior to test. Confi rm piston is at TDC
during test.
NOTE: To prevent damage to gauge assembly, always
turn pressure regulator knob to zero
(counterclockwise) after each test.
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