Lubrication System; Oil Specifications; Oil Check; Oil Additions - Kohler 15C/12.5CF Operation

3.3 Lubrication System

3.3.1

Oil Specifications

Use oil that meets the American Petroleum Institute
(API) classification of SH or SG. Using unsuitable oil or
neglecting an oil change may result in engine damage
that is not covered by the engine warranty. Figure 3-1
shows the recommended Society of Automotive
Engineers (SAE) viscosity designation for given
operating temperature ranges.
Do not mix different oil brands. Incompatibility could
cause a breakdown of lubricating ingredients and
reduce engine protection.
Below Moderate
- -18_C (0_F) Temperature
Figure 3-1 Engine Oil Selection
3.3.2

Oil Check

Check the oil level in the crankcase daily or before each
start-up to ensure that the level is in the safe range. Do
not check the oil level while operating the unit. Stop the
generator set and keep the generator set level to get an
accurate reading. To check the oil level, remove dipstick
and wipe the end clean, reinsert as far as possible and
remove. Maintain oil level between the SAFE marks on
the dipstick. See Section 1—Service Views for dipstick
location.
12 Section 3 Scheduled Maintenance
SAE
5W-30
SAE
10W-30
Above
38_C (100_F)
TP-5981-1
1. SAFE marks
Figure 3-2 Oil Level Check
Note: Do not operate the set if the oil level is below the
bottom mark on the dipstick or above the top mark
on the dipstick.
3.3.3

Oil Additions

Adding some oil between oil changes is normal. The
amount varies with generator set usage. Open the oil fill
cap and pour in a small amount of oil using a funnel or
other suitable pouring device. See Section 1—Service
Views for oil check and oil fill locations.
3.3.4

Oil Change

Change the oil according to the service schedule or
before generator set storage. Change the oil more
frequently if the generator set operates under dirty,
dusty conditions. Change the oil while the engine is still
warm. See Figure 3-3 for oil capacity.
Section 1—Service Views for oil fill, oil check, and oil
filter locations.
Model
All models
Figure 3-3 Oil Capacity
1
TP-5586-3
See
L (Qts.)
4.7 (5.0)
TP-5981 11/01