Kohler Triad OHC TH520-TH650 Manual

Kohler Triad OHC TH520-TH650 Manual

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Kohler Triad OHC TH520-TH650 Manual

Safety Precautions

To ensure safe operations please read the following statements and understand their meaning. Also refer to your equipment owner's manual for other important safety information. This manual contains safety precautions which are explained below. Please read carefully.


Warning is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that can cause severe personal injury, death, or substantial property damage if the warning is ignored.


Caution is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that will or can cause minor personal injury or property damage if the caution is ignored.

NOTE
Note is used to notify people of installation, operation, or maintenance information that is important but not hazard-related.

For Your Safety!
These precautions should be followed at all times. Failure to follow these precautions could result in injury to yourself and others.

burn hazardburn hazard
Explosive Fuel can cause fires and severe burns.
Stop engine before filling fuel tank.

Explosive Fuel! Gasoline is extremely flammable and its vapors can explode if ignited. Store gasoline only in approved containers, in well ventilated, unoccupied buildings, away from sparks or flames. Do not fill the fuel tank while the engine is hot or running, since spilled fuel could ignite if it comes in contact with hot parts or sparks from ignition. Do not start the engine near spilled fuel. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.


Rotating Parts can cause severe injury.
Stay away while engine is in operation.

Rotating Parts! Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing away from all moving parts to prevent injury. Never operate the engine with covers, shrouds, or guards removed.


Hot Parts can cause severe burns.
Do not touch engine while operating or just after stopping.

Hot Parts! Engine components can get extremely hot from operation. To prevent severe burns, do not touch these areas while the engine is running, or immediately after it is turned off. Never operate the engine with heat shields or guards removed.


Electrical Shock can cause injury.
Do not touch wires while engine is running.

Electrical Shock!
Never touch electrical wires or components while the engine is running. They can be sources of electrical shock.

California Proposition 65 Warning
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.


Accidental Starts can cause severe injury or death.
Disconnect and ground spark plug leads before servicing.

Accidental Starts!
Disabling engine. Accidental starting can cause severe injury or death. Before working on the engine or equipment, disable the engine as follows:

  1. Disconnect the spark plug lead(s).
  2. Disconnect negative (-) battery cable from battery.


Carbon Monoxide can cause severe nausea, fainting or death.
Do not operate engine in closed or confined area.

Lethal Exhaust Gases!
Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and can cause death if inhaled. Avoid inhaling exhaust fumes, and never run the engine in a closed building or confined area.


Explosive Gas can cause fires and severe acid burns.
Charge battery only in a well ventilated area. Keep sources of ignition away.

Explosive Gas!
Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas while being charged. To prevent a fire or explosion, charge batteries only in well ventilated areas. Keep sparks, open flames, and other sources of ignition away from the battery at all times. Keep batteries out of the reach of children. Remove all jewelry when servicing batteries.
Before disconnecting the negative (-) ground cable, make sure all switches are OFF. If ON, a spark will occur at the ground cable terminal which could cause an explosion if hydrogen gas or gasoline vapors are present.

Introduction

Product Overview
See Figure 1.

Congratulations – You have selected a fine four-cycle, twin cylinder, air-cooled engine. Kohler designs long life strength and on-the-job durability into each engine...making a Kohler engine dependable...dependability you can count on. Here are some reasons why:

  • Efficient overhead cam and valve design, and pressure lubrication provide maximum power, torque, and reliability under all operating conditions. The overhead cam design also provides extremely quiet operation.
  • Dependable, maintenance free electronic ignition ensures fast, easy starts time after time.
  • Kohler engines are easy to service. All routine service areas (like the dipstick and oil fill, air cleaner, spark plugs, and carburetor) are easily and quickly accessible.
  • Parts subject to the most wear and tear (like the cylinder liner and camshaft) are made from precision formulated cast iron.
  • Every Kohler engine is backed by a worldwide network of over 10,000 distributors and dealers. Service support is just a phone call away. Call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. & Canada) for Sales & Service assistance.

To keep your engine in top operating condition, follow the maintenance procedures in this manual.

Oil Recommendations

Using the proper type and weight of oil in the crankcase is extremely important. So is checking oil daily and changing oil regularly. Failure to use the correct oil, or using dirty oil, causes premature engine wear and failure.

Oil Type
Use high quality detergent oil of API (American Petroleum Institute) service class SG, SH, SJ or higher. Select the viscosity based on the air temperature at the time of operation as shown in the following table (see Figure 2).
Oil Viscosity Grades Table
Figure 2. Viscosity Grades Table.

NOTE: Using other than service class SG, SH, SJ or higher oil or extending oil change intervals longer than recommended can cause engine damage.

NOTE: Synthetic oils meeting the listed classifications may be used with oil changes performed at the recommended intervals. However to allow piston rings to properly seat, a new or rebuilt engine should be operated for at least 50 hours using standard petroleum based oil before switching to synthetic oil.

A logo or symbol on oil containers identifies the API service class and SAE viscosity grade. See Figure 3.
Oil Container Logo

Refer to "Maintenance Instructions" for detailed oil check, oil change, and oil filter change procedures.

Fuel Recommendations


Explosive Fuel!
Gasoline is extremely flammable and its vapors can explode if ignited. Store gasoline only in approved containers, in well ventilated, unoccupied buildings, away from sparks or flames. Do not fill the fuel tank while the engine is hot or running, since spilled fuel could ignite if it comes in contact with hot parts or sparks from ignition. Do not start the engine near spilled fuel. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.

General Recommendations

Purchase gasoline in small quantities and store in clean, approved containers. A container with a capacity of 2 gallons or less with a pouring spout is recommended. Such a container is easier to handle and helps eliminate spillage during refueling.
Do not use gasoline left over from the previous season, to minimize gum deposits in fuel system and to ensure easy starting.
Do not add oil to the gasoline.
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Leave room for the fuel to expand.

Fuel Type

For best results use only clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline with a pump sticker octane rating of 87 or higher. In countries using the Research method, it should be 90 octane minimum.
Unleaded gasoline is recommended as it leaves less combustion chamber deposits and reduces harmful exhaust emissions. Leaded gasoline is not recommended and must not be used in OHC engines.

Gasoline/Alcohol blends
Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline by volume) is approved as a fuel for Kohler engines. Other gasoline/alcohol blends are not approved.

Gasoline/Ether blends
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded gasoline blends (up to a maximum of 15% MTBE by volume) are approved as a fuel for Kohler engines. Other gasoline/ether blends are not approved.

Product Identification Numbers

When ordering parts, or in any communication involving an engine, always give the Model, Specification, and Serial Numbers of the engine.
The engine identification numbers appear on a decal affixed to the engine shrouding. Include letter suffixes, if there are any.

Engine Identification Label
Record your engine identification numbers on the identification label (Figure 4) for future reference.

The Emission Compliance Period referred to on the Emission Control or Air Index label indicates the number of operating hours for which the engine has been shown to meet Federal and CARB emission requirements. The following table provides the Engine Compliance Period (in hours) associated with the category descriptor found on the certification label.

Emission Compliance Period (Hours)
EPA Category C
250 Hours
Category B
500 Hours
Category A
1000 Hours
CARB Moderate
125 Hours
Intermediate
250 Hours
Extended
500 Hours

Refer to certification label for engine displacement.
Exhaust Emission Control System for models TH520, TH575, TH650 is EM.

Operating Instructions

Also read the operating instructions of the equipment this engine powers.

Pre-Start Checklist

  • Check oil level. Add oil if low. Do not overfill. On a warm engine wait a few minutes for oil to drain back to the crankcase before adding oil.
  • Check fuel level. Add fuel if low.
  • Check cooling air intake areas and external surfaces of engine. Make sure they are clean and unobstructed.
  • Check that the air cleaner components and all shrouds, equipment covers, and guards are in place and securely fastened.
  • Check that any clutches or transmissions are disengaged or placed in neutral. This is especially important on equipment with hydrostatic drive. The shift lever must be exactly in neutral to prevent resistance which could keep the engine from starting.


Lethal Exhaust Gases!
Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and can cause death if inhaled. Avoid inhaling exhaust fumes, and never run the engine in a closed building or confined area.

Cold Weather Starting Hints

  1. Be sure to use the proper oil for the temperature expected. See Figure 2.
  2. Declutch all possible external loads.
  3. A warm battery has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.
  4. Use fresh winter grade fuel.
    NOTE: Winter grade gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline left over from summer.

Starting

  1. For a Cold Engine – Place the throttle control midway between the ''slow'' and ''fast'' positions. Place the choke control into the ''on'' position.
    For a Warm Engine (normal operating temperatures) – Place the throttle control midway between the ''slow'' and ''fast'' positions. Place the choke control into the ''on'' position.
  2. Start the engine by activating the key switch.
    Release the switch as soon as the engine starts.
    NOTE: Do not crank the engine continuously for more than 10 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start, allow a 60 second cool down period between starting attempts. Failure to follow these guidelines can burn out the starter motor.
    NOTE: If the engine develops sufficient speed to disengage the starter but does not keep running (a false start), engine rotation must be allowed to come to a complete stop before attempting to restart the engine. If the starter is engaged while the flywheel is rotating, the starter pinion and flywheel ring gear may clash resulting in damage to the starter.

If the starter does not turn the engine over, shut off starter immediately. Do not make further attempts to start the engine until the condition is corrected. Do not jump start using another battery (refer to "Battery" section). See your Kohler Engine Service Dealer for trouble analysis.

  1. For a Cold Engine – Gradually return the choke control to the "off" position after the engine starts and warms up.
    The engine/equipment may be operated during the warm up period, but it may be necessary to leave the choke partially on until the engine warms up.
  2. For a Warm Engine – Return choke to "off" position as soon as engine starts.

Stopping

  1. Remove the load by disengaging all PTO attachments.
    1. For engines without a shutdown solenoid: Move the throttle to the ''slow'' or ''low'' idle position. Allow the engine to run at idle for 30-60 seconds; then stop the engine.
    2. For engines equipped with a shutdown solenoid: Position the throttle control somewhere between half and full throttle; then stop the engine.

Battery

A 12 volt battery is normally used. Refer to the operating instructions of the equipment this engine powers for specific battery requirements.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, recharge the battery (see "Battery Charging").

Operating

Angle of Operation

This engine will operate continuously at angles up to 15°; 25° intermittently. Check oil level to assure crankcase oil level is at the "F" mark on the dipstick.

Refer to the operating instructions of the equipment this engine powers. Because of equipment design or application, there may be more stringent restrictions regarding the angle of operation.

NOTE: Do not operate this engine continuously at angles exceeding 15° in any direction. Engine damage could result from insufficient lubrication.

Cooling

NOTE: If debris builds up on the grass screen or other cooling air intake areas, stop the engine immediately and clean. Operating the engine with blocked or dirty air intake and cooling areas can cause extensive damage due to overheating. See "Clean Air Intake/Cooling Area".

burn hazardburn hazard
Hot Parts!
Engine components can get extremely hot from operation. To prevent severe burns, do not touch these areas while the engine is running–or immediately after it is turned off. Never operate the engine with heat shields or guards removed.

Engine Speed

NOTE: Do not tamper with the governor setting to increase the maximum engine speed. Overspeed is hazardous and will void the engine warranty. The maximum allowable high speed for these engines is 3960 RPM, no load.

Maintenance Instructions

Maintenance, repair, or replacement of the emission control devices and systems, which are being done at the customers expense, may be performed by any non-road engine repair establishment or individual. Warranty repairs must be performed by an authorized Kohler service outlet.


Accidental Starts!
Disabling engine. Accidental starting can cause severe injury or death. Before working on the engine or equipment, disable the engine as follows:

  1. Disconnect the spark plug lead(s).
  2. Disconnect negative (-) battery cable from battery.

Maintenance Schedule

These required maintenance procedures should be performed at the frequency stated in the table. They should also be included as part of any seasonal tune-up.

Frequency Maintenance Required
Daily or Before Starting Engine
  • Fill fuel tank.
  • Check oil level.
  • Check air cleaner for dirty1, loose, or damaged parts.
  • Check air intake and cooling areas, clean as necessary1.
Every 25 Hours
  • Service precleaner element1.
Every 100 Hours
  • Replace air cleaner element 1.
  • Change oil.
  • Remove cooling shrouds and clean cooling areas1,3.
Every 200 Hours
  • Check spark plug condition and gap.
  • Change oil filter.
  • Replace fuel filter.
Every 400 Hours
  • Check valve to rocker arm clearance and adjust as necessary 2.
Every 500 Hours
  • Have crankshaft spline lubricated 2.
Annually or Every 500 Hours
  • Have starter drive serviced 2.

1 Perform these maintenance procedures more frequently under extremely dusty, dirty conditions.
2 Have a Kohler Engine Service Dealer perform this service.
3 Cleanout kits 25 755 20-S (black) or 25 755 21-S (gold) allow cooling areas to be cleaned without removing shrouds.

Check Oil Level

The importance of checking and maintaining the proper oil level in the crankcase cannot be overemphasized. Check oil BEFORE EACH USE as follows:

  1. Make sure the engine is stopped, level, and is cool so the oil has had time to drain into the sump.
  2. To keep dirt, debris, etc., out of the engine, clean the area around the dipstick before removing it.
  3. Remove the dipstick; wipe oil off. Reinsert the dipstick into the tube and press all the way down.
  4. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.
    The oil level should be up to, but not over, the "F" mark on the dipstick. See Figure 5.
    Maintenance Instructions - Checking Oil Level
  5. If the level is low, add oil of the proper type, up to the "F" mark on the dipstick. (Refer to "Oil Type".) Always check the level with the dipstick before adding more oil.
    NOTE: To prevent extensive engine wear or damage, always maintain the proper oil level in the crankcase. Never operate the engine with the oil level below the "L" mark or over the "F" mark on the dipstick.

Oil Sentry

Some engines are equipped with an optional Oil Sentry oil pressure switch. If the oil pressure decreases below an acceptable level, the Oil Sentry will either shut off the engine or activate a warning signal, depending on the application.
If the Oil Sentry switch is removed, torque the switch to a maximum of 3.4 N·m (30 in. lb.) upon reinstallation.
NOTE: Make sure the oil level is checked BEFORE EACH USE and is maintained up to the "F" mark on the dipstick. This includes engines equipped with Oil Sentry.

Change Oil and Oil Filter

The use of Kohler genuine replacement oil filters and Kohler Lubricating Oil is recommended for efficient operation and long life. Command 10W30 oil has Part No. 25 357 06-S (qt.).

Change Oil

Change oil after every 100 hours of operation. Refill with service class SG, SH, SJ or higher oil as specified in the ''Viscosity Grades'' table (Figure 2).
Change the oil while the engine is still warm. The oil will flow more freely and carry away more impurities. Make sure the engine is level when filling, checking, and changing the oil.

Maintenance Instructions - Changing the oil
Change the oil as follows (see Figure 6):

  1. To keep dirt, debris, etc., out of the engine, clean the area around the oil fill cap and dipstick before they are removed.
  2. Remove one of the oil drain plugs, oil fill cap, and dipstick. Be sure to allow ample time for complete drainage.
  3. Reinstall the drain plug. Make sure it is tightened to 14 N·m (10 ft. lb.) torque.
  4. Fill the crankcase, with new oil of the proper type, to the "F" mark on the dipstick. Refer to "Oil Type". Always check the level with the dipstick before adding more oil.
  5. Reinstall the oil fill cap and tighten securely. Reinstall dipstick.
    NOTE: To prevent extensive engine wear or damage, always maintain the proper oil level in the crankcase. Never operate the engine with the oil level below the "L" mark or over the "F" mark on the dipstick.

Change Oil Filter

Replace the oil filter at least every other oil change (every 200 hours of operation). Always use a genuine Kohler oil filter. Use chart below to determine part number to order.

Oil Filter Part No. Length
12 050 01-S 2-1/2"
28 050 01-S 2-1/4"
277233-S 5"

Replace the oil filter as follows:

  1. Drain the oil from the engine crankcase.
  2. Allow the oil filter to drain.
  3. Before removing the oil filter, clean the area around the oil filter to keep dirt and debris out of the engine. Remove the old filter. Wipe off the surface where the oil filter mounts.
  4. Place a new replacement filter in a shallow pan with the open end up. Pour new oil, of the proper type in through the threaded center hole. Stop pouring when the oil reaches the bottom of the threads. Allow a minute or two for the oil to be absorbed by the filter material.
  5. Apply a thin film of clean oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter.
  6. Install the replacement oil filter to the filter adapter. Turn the oil filter clockwise until the rubber gasket contacts the filter adapter or oil cooler, then tighten the filter an additional 2/3 to 1 turn.
  7. Reinstall the drain plug. Make sure it is tightened to 14 N·m (10 ft. lb.) torque.
  8. Fill the crankcase with new oil, of the proper type, to the "F" mark on the dipstick.
  9. Test run the engine to check for leaks. Stop the engine, allow a minute for the oil to drain down, and recheck the level on the dipstick. Make sure oil level is up to, but not over the ''F'' mark on the dipstick.

Service Precleaner and Air Cleaner Element

This engine is equipped with a replaceable, high density paper air cleaner element. Most engines are also equipped with an oiled, foam precleaner which surrounds the paper element. See Figures 7, 8, 9, and 10.
Check the air cleaner daily or before starting the engine. Check for a buildup of dirt and debris around the air cleaner system. Keep this area clean. Also check for loose or damaged components. Replace all bent or damaged air cleaner components.
NOTE: Operating the engine with loose or damaged air cleaner components could allow unfiltered air into the engine causing premature wear and failure.
Replacing Standard Air Cleaner Components
Replacing Top Tank Air Cleaner Components

Service Precleaner

If so equipped, wash and reoil the precleaner every 25 hours of operation (more often under extremely dusty or dirty conditions).

  1. Loosen the cover retaining knob and remove the cover.
  2. Remove the precleaner from the paper element.
  3. Wash the precleaner in warm water with detergent. Rinse the precleaner thoroughly until all traces of detergent are eliminated. Squeeze out excess water (do not wring). Allow the precleaner to air dry.
  4. Saturate the precleaner with new engine oil. Squeeze out all excess oil.
  5. Reinstall the precleaner over the paper element.
  6. Reinstall the air cleaner cover. Secure cover with the cover retaining knob.
  7. When precleaner replacement is necessary, order genuine Kohler parts.
Standard Top Tank
28 083 02-S 28 083 06-S

Service Paper Element

Every 100 hours of operation (more often under extremely dusty or dirty conditions) replace the paper element.

  1. Loosen the cover retaining knob and remove the air cleaner cover.
  2. Clean the area around the element to prevent debris from getting in the engine when element is removed.
  3. Remove the element cover wing nuts, element cover, and paper element with precleaner. Separate the precleaner from the element and service as necessary.
  4. Do not wash the paper element or use pressurized air, as this will damage the element. Replace a dirty, bent, or damaged element with a genuine Kohler element. Handle new elements carefully; do not use if the sealing surfaces are bent or damaged.
  5. When servicing the air cleaner, check the air cleaner base. Make sure it is secured and not bent or damaged. Also, check the element cover for damage or improper fit. Replace all damaged air cleaner components.
  6. Check the condition of the rubber seals on the air cleaner studs. If they are worn, damaged, or their condition is questionable in any way, replace them with the new seals packaged with the new element.
  7. Reinstall the paper element, precleaner, element cover, element cover nut, and air cleaner cover. Secure cover with the cover retaining knob.
  8. When element replacement is necessary, order genuine Kohler parts.
Standard Top Tank
28 083 03-S 28 083 04-S

Clean Air Intake/Cooling Areas

To ensure proper cooling, make sure the grass screen, cooling fins, and other external surfaces of the engine are kept clean at all times.
Every 100 hours of operation (more often under extremely dusty, dirty conditions), remove the blower housing* and other cooling shrouds. Clean the cooling fins and external surfaces as necessary. Make sure the cooling shrouds are reinstalled.
NOTE: Operating the engine with a blocked grass screen, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed, will cause engine damage due to overheating.

*Cleanout kits 25 755 20-S (black) or 25 755 21-S (gold) allow inspection and cleanout of the cooling fins, without removing the blower housing.

Ignition System

This engine is equipped with an electronic CD ignition system. Other than periodically checking/replacing the spark plugs, no maintenance, timing, or adjustments are necessary or possible with this system.
In the event starting problems should occur which are not corrected by replacing the spark plugs, see your Kohler Engine Service Dealer for trouble analysis.

Check Spark Plugs

Every 200 hours of operation, remove the spark plugs, check condition, and reset the gap or replace with new plugs as necessary. Use Champion type RC12YC (or equivalent) spark plugs, Kohler Part No. 12 132 02-S.

  1. Before removing the spark plug, clean the area around the base of the plug to keep dirt and debris out of the engine.
  2. Remove the plug and check its condition. Replace the plug if worn, or reuse is questionable.
    NOTE: Do not clean the spark plug in a machine using abrasive grit. Some grit could remain in the spark plug and enter the engine causing extensive wear and damage.
  3. Check the gap using a wire feeler gauge. Adjust the gap to 0.76 mm (0.030 in.) by carefully bending the ground electrode. See Figure 11.
    Maintenance Instructions - Checking Spark Plug Gap
  4. Reinstall the spark plug into the cylinder head. Torque the spark plug to 24.4-29.8 N·m (18-22 ft. lb.).

Battery Charging

burn hazardburn hazard
Explosive Gas!
Batteries produce explosive hydrogen gas while being charged. To prevent a fire or explosion, charge batteries only in well ventilated areas. Keep sparks, open flames, and other sources of ignition away from the battery at all times. Keep batteries out of the reach of children. Remove all jewelry when servicing batteries.
Before disconnecting the negative (-) ground cable, make sure all switches are OFF. If ON, a spark will occur at the ground cable terminal which could cause an explosion if hydrogen gas or gasoline vapors are present.

NOTE: Do not apply 12 volt DC to kill terminal of ignition module.

Fuel Filter

Some engines are equipped with an in-line fuel filter. Periodically inspect the filter and replace every 200 operating hours. Use a genuine Kohler filter, Part No. 25 050 22-S.

Troubleshooting Carburetor

If engine troubles are experienced that appear to be fuel system related, check the following troubleshooting hints.

  • Make sure the fuel tank is filled with clean, fresh gasoline.
  • Make sure the fuel tank cap vent is not blocked and that it is operating properly.
  • If the fuel tank is equipped with a shut-off valve, make sure it is open.
  • If the engine is equipped with an in-line fuel filter, make sure it is clean and unobstructed. Replace the filter if necessary.
  • Make sure fuel is reaching the carburetor. This includes checking the fuel lines and fuel pump for restrictions or faulty components. Replace as necessary.
  • Make sure the air cleaner element is clean and all air cleaner element components are fastened securely.

If, after checking the items listed above, the engine is hard to start, runs roughly, or stalls at low idle speed, it may be necessary to adjust or service the carburetor.

Adjust Carburetor

NOTE: Carburetor adjustments should be made only after the engine has warmed up.

The carburetor is designed to deliver the correct fuel-to-air mixture to the engine. Fuel mixture settings are set at the factory and are not adjustable.

  1. Start the engine and run at half throttle for 5 to 10 minutes to warm up. The engine must be warm before adjusting the low idle speed setting.
  2. Low Idle Speed Setting: Place the throttle control into the ''idle'' or ''slow'' position. The low idle speed screw can be accessed through the air cleaner (see Figure 12). Remove the outer cover and look for the grommet in the element cover. If the air cleaner is assembled correctly, the grommet is aligned with a corresponding hole in the air cleaner base, directly above the low idle speed screw. Insert the screwdriver (#1 Phillips) down through grommet to make the adjustment. Set the low idle speed to 1200 RPM* (+ 75 RPM) by turning the low idle speed adjusting screw in or out. Check the speed using a tachometer.
    *NOTE: The actual low idle speed depends on the application – refer to equipment manufacturer's recommendations. The recommended low idle speed for basic engines is 1200 RPM.
    Carburetor Adjustment

Troubleshooting

When troubles occur, be sure to check the simple causes which, at first, may seem too obvious to be considered. For example, a starting problem could be caused by an empty fuel tank. Some common causes of engine troubles are listed in the following table.

Do not attempt to service or replace major engine components, or any items that require special timing or adjustment procedures. Have your Kohler Engine Service Dealer do this work.

Possible Cause
Problem No Fuel Improper Fuel Dirt In Fuel Line/System Dirty Grass Screen Incorrect Oil Level Engine Overloaded Dirty Air Cleaner Faulty Spark Plug
Will Not Start
Hard Starting
Stops Suddenly
Lacks Power
Operates Erratically
Knocks or Pings
Skips or Misfires
Backfires
Overheats
High Fuel Consumption

Storage

If the engine will be out of service for two months or more, use the following storage procedure:

  1. Clean the exterior surfaces of the engine.
  2. Change the oil and filter while the engine is still warm from operation. See "Change Oil and Oil Filter".
  3. The fuel system must be completely emptied, or the gasoline must be treated with a stabilizer to prevent deterioration. If you choose to use a stabilizer, follow the manufacturers recommendations, and add the correct amount for the capacity of the fuel system. Fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Run the engine for 2-3 minutes to get stabilized fuel into the carburetor. Close fuel shut-off valve when unit is being stored or transported.
    To empty the system, run the engine until the tank and system are empty.
  4. Remove the spark plugs. Add one tablespoon of engine oil into each spark plug hole. Install the plugs, but do not connect the plug leads. Crank the engine two or three revolutions.
  5. Store the engine in a clean, dry place.

Parts Ordering

The engine Model, Specification, and Serial Numbers are required when ordering replacement parts from your Kohler Engine Service Dealer. These numbers are found on the identification plate which is affixed to the engine shrouding. Include letter suffixes if there are any. See "Product Identification Numbers".

Always insist on genuine Kohler parts. All genuine Kohler parts meet strict standards for fit, reliability, and performance.

Major Repair

Major repair information is available in Kohler Engine Service Manuals. However, major repair generally requires the attention of a trained mechanic and the use of special tools and equipment. Your Kohler Engine Service Dealer has the facilities, training, and genuine Kohler replacement parts necessary to perform this service. For Sales & Service assistance call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. & Canada) or contact your Kohler Engine Dealer or Service Distributor, they're in the Yellow Pages under Engines-Gasoline.

Model Designation

Model TH520S for example: T designates Triad engine, H designates horizontal crankshaft, and 520 designates the approximate displacement. A letter suffix designates a specific version as follows:

Suffix Designates
S Electric Start
GS Generator Application/Electric Start
ST Electric Start/Retractable Start

Specifications

Model: TH520 TH575 TH650
Bore: mm (in.) 73 (2.87) 75 (2.95) 80 (3.15)
Stroke: mm (in.) 62 (2.44) 65 (2.56) 65 (2.56)
Displacement: cm 3 (in. 3 ) 520 (31.7) 574 (35.0) 653 (39.8)
Power (@3600 RPM): kW (HP) 11.9 (16*) 13.4 (18*) 14.9 (20*)
Max. Torque: N·m (ft. lb.) @RPM 35.5 (26.2) @2400 40.5 (29.9) @2400 45.15 (33.3) @1800
Compression Ratio: 7.8:1 8.4:1 8.8:1
Weight: kg (lb.) 41 (90) 41 (90) 41 (90)
Oil Capacity (w/filter): L (U.S. qts) 1.4 (1.5) 1.4 (1.5) 1.4 (1.5)

Exhaust Emission Control System for models TH520, TH575, TH650 is EM.
* Horsepower ratings exceed Society of Automotive Engineers Small Engine Test Code J1940. Actual engine horsepower is lower and affected by, but not limited to, accessories (air cleaner, exhaust, charging, cooling, fuel pump, etc.), application, engine speed and ambient operating conditions (temperature, humidity, and altitude). Kohler reserves the right to change product specifications, designs and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

LIMITED 2 YEAR WARRANTY

Our obligation under this warranty is expressly limited, at our option, to the replacement or repair at Kohler Co., Kohler, Wisconsin 53044, or at a service facility designated by us of such parts as inspection shall disclose to have been defective.

TO OBTAIN WARRANTY SERVICE:
Purchaser must bring the engine to an authorized Kohler service facility. To locate the nearest facility, visit our website, www.kohlerengines.com, and click on SALES AND SERVICES to use the locator function, consult your Yellow Pages or telephone 1-800-544-2444.

If you have any questions regarding warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact Kohler Co. at 1-920-457-4441 and ask for an Engine Service representative.

FOR SALES AND SERVICE INFORMATION IN U.S. AND CANADA, CALL 1-800-544-2444
ENGINE DIVISION, KOHLER CO., KOHLER, WISCONSIN 53044

Documents / Resources

References

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Kohler Triad OHC TH520-TH650 Manual

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