Hello and Thank you for this service. I **** trying to lower the lowest rpm. With the throttle at it's lowest setting it idles very close to a normal operating speed. Which is bad for people who want to mow with out the engine revving at close to maximum rpm. Any comments would be appreciated.

2 comments:

Mr. Anderson

February 27, 2025

To lower the idle RPM on a Kohler KT715 engine, follow these steps:

1. Start the engine and allow it to warm up.
2. Locate the idle speed adjustment screw on the carburetor.
3. Use a tachometer to check the current RPM.
4. Turn the inner adjustment screw counterclockwise (out) to decrease the idle speed.
5. Release the governor lever and ensure the throttle lever is in the idle position.
6. Verify the idle speed matches the equipment manufacturer’s recommended setting (typically 1750 RPM).
7. If further adjustment is needed, use pliers to bend the 12 mm (0.472 in.) tab to fine-tune the speed.

Ensure the governed idle speed is approximately 300 RPM higher than the low idle speed.

This answer is automatically generated

Craig

February 28, 2025

@Mr. Anderson thank you. Though the idle screw is not touching the governor lever and bending anything would have to be bent drastically

Russ Manning

April 26, 2025

What is the oil capacity of the Kohler KT740 engine?

Summary of Contents for Kohler KT715

Page 1 KT715-KT745 Service Manual IMPORTANT: Read all safety precautions and instructions carefully before operating equipment. Refer to operating instruction of equipment that this engine powers. Ensure engine is stopped and level before performing any maintenance or service. Safety Maintenance Speciﬁ cations...
Page 2 Safety SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WARNING: A hazard that could result in death, serious injury, or substantial property damage. CAUTION: A hazard that could result in minor personal injury or property damage. NOTE: is used to notify people of important installation, operation, or maintenance information. CAUTION WARNING WARNING...
Page 3 ² Have a Kohler authorized dealer perform this service. REPAIRS/SERVICE PARTS Kohler genuine service parts can be purchased from Kohler authorized dealers. To ﬁ nd a local Kohler authorized dealer visit KohlerEngines.com or call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. and Canada). 32 690 03 Rev. --...
Page 4 OIL RECOMMENDATIONS STORAGE If engine will be out of service for 2 months or more We recommend use of Kohler oils for best performance. follow procedure below. Other high-quality detergent oils (including synthetic) of API (American Petroleum Institute) service class SJ 1.
Page 5 Speciﬁ cations Engine Dimensions Dimensions in millimeters. Inch equivalents shown in [ ]. 32 690 03 Rev. -- KohlerEngines.com...
Page 6 Kohler engine identiﬁ cation numbers (model, speciﬁ cation and serial) should be referenced for efﬁ cient repair, ordering correct parts, and engine replacement. Model ..... KT715 7000 Series Engine Numerical Designation Speciﬁ...
Page 7 Speciﬁ cations TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS KT715 KT725 KT730 KT735 KT740 KT745 Crankcase Breather Assembly Outer Cover Stud 6.2 N·m (55 in. lb.) into new hole 4.0 N·m (35 in. lb.) into used hole Outer Cover Hex Nut 1.3 N·m (11.5 in. lb.) Oil Drain Plug 13.6 N·m (10 ft.
Page 8 Speciﬁ cations TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS KT715 KT725 KT730 KT735 KT740 KT745 Starter Assembly Thru Bolt Inertia Drive 4.5-5.7 N·m (40-50 in. lb.) Solenoid Shift 5.6-9.0 N·m (49-79 in. lb.) Mounting Screw 23.8 N·m (211 in. lb.) Brush Holder Mounting Screw 2.5-3.3 N·m (22-29 in. lb.)
Page 9 Speciﬁ cations CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS KT715 KT725 KT730 KT735 KT740 KT745 Crankshaft End Play (free) 0.075/0.595 mm (0.0030/0.0023 in.) Bore (in crankcase) 40.974/40.987 mm (1.6131/1.6137 in.) Max. Wear Limit 41.000 mm (1.6142 in.) Bore (in oil pan) 40.974/41.000 mm (1.6457/1.6142 in.) Crankshaft Bore (in oil pan)-to-Crankshaft Running Clearance 0.039/0.087 mm (0.0015/0.0034 in.)
Page 10 Speciﬁ cations CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS KT715 KT725 KT730 KT735 KT740 KT745 Piston, Piston Rings, and Piston Pin Piston-to-Piston Pin Running Clearance 0.006/0.017 mm (0.0002/0.0007 in.) Pin Bore I.D. 17.006/17.012 mm (0.6695/0.6698 in.) Max. Wear Limit 17.025 mm (0.6703 in.) Pin O.D.
Page 11 Speciﬁ cations GENERAL TORQUE VALUES English Fastener Torque Recommendations for Standard Applications Bolts, Screws, Nuts and Fasteners Assembled Into Cast Iron or Steel Grade 2 or 5 Fasteners Into Aluminum Size Grade 2 Grade 5 Grade 8 Tightening Torque: N·m (in. lb.) ± 20% 8-32 2.3 (20) 2.8 (25)
Page 12 Here is a list of tools and their source. SEPARATE TOOL SUPPLIERS Kohler Tools SE Tools Design Technology Inc. Contact your local Kohler source of 415 Howard St. 768 Burr Oak Drive supply. Lapeer, MI 48446 Westmont, IL 60559...
Page 13 For reaming worn valve guides to accept replacement oversize valves. Can be used in low-speed drill press or with handle below for hand reaming. Reamer Handle Design Technology Inc. For hand reaming using Kohler 25 455 12-S reamer. DTI-K830 Valve Guide Service Kit (Courage, Aegis, Command, OHC) SE Tools KLR-82415 For servicing worn valve guides.
Page 14 Tools and Aids FLYWHEEL HOLDING TOOL ROCKER ARM/CRANKSHAFT TOOL A ﬂ ywheel holding tool can be made out of an old junk A spanner wrench to lift rocker arms or turn crankshaft ﬂ ywheel ring gear and used in place of a strap wrench. may be made out of an old junk connecting rod.
Page 15: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE When troubles occur, be sure to check simple causes which, at ﬁ rst, may seem too obvious to be considered. For example, a starting problem could be caused by an empty fuel tank. Some general common causes of engine troubles are listed below and vary by engine speciﬁ cation. Use these to locate causing factors.
Page 16 Troubleshooting EXTERNAL ENGINE INSPECTION Engine Loses Power NOTE: It is good practice to drain oil at a location away ● Dirty air cleaner element. from workbench. Be sure to allow ample time for ● Engine overheated. complete drainage. ● Excessive engine load. ●...
Page 17 Troubleshooting CRANKCASE VACUUM TEST WARNING WARNING Carbon Monoxide can cause severe nausea, Rotating Parts can cause severe injury. fainting or death. Stay away while engine is in operation. Avoid inhaling exhaust fumes. Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing away from all monoxide.
Page 18 Troubleshooting COMPRESSION TEST For Command Twins: A compression test is best performed on a warm engine. Clean any dirt or debris away from base of spark plug(s) before removing them. Be sure choke is off, and throttle is wide open during test. Compression should be at least 160 psi and should not vary more than 15% between cylinders.
Page 19: Air Cleaner/Intake
Air Cleaner/Intake AIR CLEANER Air Cleaner Base These systems are CARB/EPA certiﬁ ed and components Disassembly/Reassembly should not be altered or modiﬁ ed in any way. If air cleaner base requires removal, proceed as follows: Air Cleaner Components 1. Remove mounting screws for fuel pump (if equipped), and blower housing.
Page 20: Fuel System
3. Connect pulse line to new fuel pump and make sure Low permeation fuel line must be installed on carbureted opposite end is properly connected into valve cover. Kohler Co. engines to maintain EPA and CARB regulatory compliance. 4. Attach new fuel pump using screws. Torque screws to 2.8 N·m (25 in.
Page 21 Fuel System CARBURETOR Walbro One-Barrel Carburetor Components WARNING Explosive Fuel can cause ﬁ res and severe burns. Do not ﬁ ll fuel tank while engine is hot or running. Gasoline is extremely ﬂ ammable and its vapors can explode if ignited. Store gasoline only in approved containers, in well ventilated, unoccupied buildings, away from sparks or ﬂ...
Page 22 Fuel System Troubleshooting-Carburetor Related Causes Condition Possible Cause Conclusion Engine runs rich (indicated by black, Clogged air cleaner. Clean or replace air cleaner. sooty exhaust smoke, misﬁ ring, loss Choke partially closed during Check choke lever/linkage to ensure of speed and power, governor operation.
Page 23 Fuel System Carburetor Adjustments Float Setting (Keihin Only) NOTE: Carburetor adjustments should be made only after engine has warmed up. Carburetor is designed to deliver correct fuel-to-air mixture to engine under all operating conditions. Main fuel jet is calibrated at factory and is not adjustable. Idle fuel adjusting needles are also set at factory and are not adjustable.
Page 24 1219 meters (4000 ft.). To obtain high altitude kit information or to ﬁ nd a Kohler authorized dealer visit 24. Install slow jet and new plug into end of slow jet KohlerEngines.com or call 1-800-544-2444 (U.S. and tube.
Page 25 Fuel System UNITIZED THROTTLE AND CHOKE CONTROL Some engines are equipped with a unitized throttle and choke control. This assembly controls choke and engine speed with a single lever. Engines with a unitized throttle and choke control will have either a left side pull or a right side pull.
Page 26 If starter does not turn engine over, shut starter off immediately. Do not make further attempts to start engine until condition is corrected. Do not jump start using another battery. See your Kohler authorized dealer for trouble analysis. 4. For Operation – After engine starts, move throttle/...
Page 27: Governor System
Governor System GOVERNOR Governed speed setting is determined by position of throttle control. It can be variable or constant, depending on engine application. Governor is designed to hold engine speed constant under changing load conditions. Most engines are equipped with a centrifugal ﬂ...
Page 28: Lubrication System
Lubrication System This engine uses a combination pressure/splash lubrication system, delivering oil under pressure to crankshaft, connecting rod and main bearing surfaces. Other component areas are splash lubricated. A high-efﬁ ciency gerotor oil pump maintains high oil ﬂ ow and oil pressure, even at low speeds and high operating temperatures.
Page 29 Lubrication System OIL SENTRY (if equipped) Installation ™ NOTE: Make sure oil level is checked before each use, 1. Apply pipe sealant with Teﬂ on ® (Loctite ® ® 592™ and is maintained up to FULL or F mark on Thread Sealant or equivalent) to threads of switch.
Page 30: Electrical System
Electrical System SPARK PLUGS Inspection Inspect each spark plug as it is removed from cylinder CAUTION head. Deposits on tip are an indication of general Electrical Shock can cause injury. condition of piston rings, valves, and carburetor. Do not touch wires while engine is running. Normal and fouled plugs are shown in following photos: Normal Spark Plug Component and Details...
Page 31 Electrical System Carbon Fouled Battery Maintenance Regular maintenance is necessary to prolong battery life. Battery Test To test battery, follow manufacturer's instructions. ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEMS All ignition systems are designed to be trouble free for life of engine. Other than periodically checking/replacing spark plugs, no maintenance or timing adjustments are necessary or possible.
Page 32 Electrical System Ignition Systems These systems use a capacitive discharge (CD) coil. With CDI ﬁ xed timing, ignition timing and spark remains constant regardless of engine speed. Timing of spark is controlled by location of ﬂ ywheel magnet group as referenced to engine TDC.
Page 33 Electrical System Electronic Ignition Systems Tests NOTE: Ignition tester must be used to test ignition on these engines. Use of any other tester can result in inaccurate ﬁ ndings. Battery on unit must be fully charged and properly connected before performing tests (a battery that is hooked up or charged backward will crank engine but it won’t have spark).
Page 34 Electrical System BATTERY CHARGING SYSTEM NOTE: Observe following guidelines to avoid damage to electrical system and components: ● Make sure battery polarity is correct. A negative (–) ground system is used. ● Disconnect rectiﬁ er-regulator plug and/or wiring harness plug before doing any electric welding on equipment powered by engine.
Page 35 Electrical System 12/15/25 Amp Battery Charging Systems NOTE: Always zero ohmmeter on each scale before testing to ensure accurate readings. Voltage tests should be made with engine running at 3600 RPM with no load. Battery must be good and fully charged. When problems occur in keeping battery charged or battery charges at high rate, charging system or battery might be causing problems.
Page 36: Starter System
Starter System NOTE: Do not crank engine continuously for more than 10 seconds. Allow a 60 second cool-down period between starting attempts. Failure to follow these guidelines can burn out starter motor. NOTE: If engine develops sufﬁ cient speed to disengage starter but does not keep running (a false start), engine rotation must be allowed to come to a complete stop before attempting to restart engine.
Page 37 If splines are dirty, clean them with solvent. 7. Splines should have a light ﬁ lm of lubricant. Lubricate as necessary with Kohler starter drive lubricant. Reinstall or replace drive components, assembling them in reverse order they were removed.
Page 38 5. Install thru bolts and torque to 4.5-5.7 N·m Plate Plug (40-50 in. lb.). Solenoid Frame and Field 6. Lubricate drive shaft with Kohler starter drive Brush Holder lubricant. Install drive components following Commutator End instructions for servicing starter drive. Screw...
Page 39 Brush Replacement 4 brushes and springs are serviced as a set. Use a new Kohler brush and spring kit if replacement is necessary. 1. Perform steps 1-5 in Starter Disassembly. 2. Remove screws securing brush holder assembly to end cap (plate).
Page 40 Starter System 10. Starter reassembly when replacing brushes/brush Starter Reassembly holder assembly: NOTE: Always use a new retainer. Do not reuse old a. Hold starter assembly vertically on end housing, retainers that have been removed. and carefully position assembled brush holder NOTE: Correctly installed, center pivot section of drive assembly, with supplied protective tube, against lever will be ﬂ...
Page 41 Starter System Solenoid Tests NOTE: DO NOT leave 12 volt test leads connected to solenoid for any time over what is necessary for performing each of individual tests. Internal damage to solenoid may occur. Disconnect all leads from solenoid including positive brush lead attached to lower stud terminal. Remove mounting hardware and separate solenoid from starter for testing.
Page 42 To Carburetor Filter For engine to be Tier III compliant, it may be ﬁ tted with a Kohler supplied canister vapor recovery system, or a system developed and installed by Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Details on Kohler system are included below.
Page 43 Emission Compliant Systems SECONDARY EMISSION COMPLIANT SYSTEM Twin Secondary Air Induction System Hose To Exhaust Secondary Air Inlet Screen Hose To Carburetor Manifold Valve Assembly Hose To Exhaust Manifold Single Secondary Air Induction System Secondary Air Hose To Exhaust Hose To Carburetor Inlet Screen Valve Assembly Manifold...
Page 44 Emission Compliant Systems Remove Inlet Screen Inlet Components Secondary Air Valve Assembly Barb Inlet Screen 1. Remove inlet screen from secondary air valve assembly by grasping inlet screen at base and gently pulling away from valve assembly. 2. Use a soft brush to remove debris from screen. 3.
Page 45 Disassembly/Inspection and Service WARNING Before working on engine or equipment, disable engine as Accidental Starts can cause severe injury or follows: 1) Disconnect spark plug lead(s). 2) Disconnect death. negative (–) battery cable from battery. Disconnect and ground spark plug lead(s) before servicing.
Page 46 Disassembly/Inspection and Service Clean all parts thoroughly as engine is disassembled. Remove Throttle Controls Only clean parts can be accurately inspected and gauged for wear or damage. There are many Control Bracket Components commercially available cleaners that will quickly remove grease, oil and grime from engine parts.
Page 47 Disassembly/Inspection and Service Remove Air Cleaner and Carburetor Remove Inner Bafﬂ es Remove mounting screws securing inner bafﬂ es to WARNING crankcase. Note position of any lifting bracket(s). Remove inner bafﬂ es. Explosive Fuel can cause ﬁ res and severe burns.
Page 48 Disassembly/Inspection and Service Cylinder Head Components Gasket Valve Cylinder Head Valve Spring Cap Valve Stem Seal Valve Spring Valve Spring Keeper Stud Spark Plug Guide Plate Push Rod Rocker Arm Rocker Arm Pivots Adjusters Washer Valve Cover Remove Spark Plugs Remove Cylinder Heads Remove spark plug from each cylinder head.
Page 49 Disassembly/Inspection and Service 3. Once valve spring is compressed, remove following 4. Repeat above procedure for other cylinder head. Do items. not interchange parts from 1 cylinder head to another. ● Valve spring keepers. ● Valve spring caps. ● Valve springs. ●...
Page 50 Disassembly/Inspection and Service Valve Guides Flywheel/Ignition/Breather Components If a valve guide is worn beyond speciﬁ cations, it will not guide valve in a straight line. This may result in burnt valve faces or seats, loss of compression, and excessive oil consumption. To check valve guide-to-valve stem clearance, thoroughly clean valve guide and, using a split-ball gauge, measure inside diameter of guide.
Page 51 ﬂ ywheel, crankshaft, and key if ﬂ ywheel key is sheared or keyway is damaged. Inspect ring gear for cracks or damage. Kohler does not provide ring gears as a serviceable part. Replace ﬂ ywheel if ring gear is damaged.
Page 52 Disassembly/Inspection and Service 3. Carefully inspect governor gear shaft and replace it Remove Oil Pan Assembly only if it is damaged. After removing damaged shaft, 1. Remove screws securing oil pan to crankcase. press or lightly tap replacement shaft into oil pan to depth shown.
Page 53 Piston Ring Set Piston Pin Retainer be checked for wear or damage. Whenever tappets are Piston Piston Pin replaced, apply a liberal coating of Kohler lubricant to base of each new tappet before it is installed. Connecting Rod Connecting Rod End Cap...
Page 54 Disassembly/Inspection and Service Inspection and Service Ring failure is usually indicated by excessive oil Check bearing area (big end) for excessive wear, score consumption and blue exhaust smoke. When rings fail, marks, running and side clearances (See Speciﬁ cations). oil is allowed to enter combustion chamber where it is Replace rod and cap if scored or excessively worn.
Page 55 (refer to Speciﬁ cations). necessary. If bearing surfaces are worn or damaged, Oversize Kohler replacement piston will then ﬁ t crankcase and/or oil pan will need to be replaced. correctly.
Page 56 Disassembly/Inspection and Service 3. When bore is within 0.064 mm (0.0025 in.) of desired size, remove coarse stones and replace them with burnishing stones. Continue with burnishing stones until bore is within 0.013 mm (0.0005 in.) of desired size and then use ﬁ nish stones (220-280 grit) and polish bore to its ﬁ...
Page 57 Reassembly NOTE: Make sure engine is assembled using all Install Flywheel End Oil Seal speciﬁ ed torque values, tightening sequences, 1. Make sure seal bore of crankcase is clean and free and clearances. Failure to observe speciﬁ cations of any nicks or burrs. could cause severe engine wear or damage.
Page 58 Reassembly Crankshaft/Governor Gear/Oil Pump Components Install Governor Cross Shaft 1. Lubricate governor cross shaft bearing surfaces in crankcase with engine oil. 2. Slide lower washer onto governor cross shaft and install cross shaft from inside of crankcase. 3. Install nylon washer onto governor cross shaft, then start push-on retaining ring.
Page 59 Reassembly 4. Make sure FLY stamping on piston is facing toward Oil Pump Assembly ﬂ ywheel side of engine. Use a hammer with a rubber Oil pump is mounted inside oil pan. If service or wood grip and gently tap piston into cylinder. Be was required and oil pump was removed, refer to careful oil ring rails do not spring free between Disassembly/Inspection and Service procedure.
Page 60 Reassembly Install Oil Pan Assembly Flywheel/Ignition/Breather Components Sealant Pattern Fastener Torque Sequence RTV sealant is used as a gasket between oil pan and crankcase. Refer to Tools and Aids for a listing of approved sealants. Always use fresh sealant. Using outdated sealant can result in leakage.
Page 61 Reassembly Install Breather Reed and Breather Reed Cover Install Flywheel and Fan Breather Reed Cover Sealant CAUTION Damaging Crankshaft and Flywheel can cause personal injury. Using improper procedures can lead to broken fragments. Broken fragments could be thrown from engine. Always observe and use precautions and procedures when installing ﬂ...
Page 62 Reassembly Cylinder Head Components Gasket Valve Cylinder Head Valve Spring Cap Valve Stem Seal Valve Spring Valve Spring Keeper Stud Spark Plug Guide Plate Push Rod Rocker Arm Rocker Arm Pivots Adjusters Washer Valve Cover 1. Check to make sure there are no nicks or burrs on Assemble and Install Cylinder Heads sealing surfaces of cylinder head or crankcase.
Page 63 Reassembly Adjust Valve Clearance Install Valve Covers Adjusters Retaining Push Rods Valve Cover RTV Sealant Adjuster Rocker Arm 1. Rotate crankshaft to establish TDC on compression stroke for cylinder 1. Check for: a. Compression will be felt through spark plug hole. RTV Sealant b.
Page 64 Reassembly Install Spark Plugs 1. Check gap using wire feeler gauge. Adjust gap to 0.76 mm (0.03 in.). 2. Install plug into cylinder head. 3. Torque plug to 27 N·m (20 ft. lb.). External Engine Components Fixed Guard Air Cleaner Cover Debris Screen Blower Housing Hose Clamp...
Page 65 Reassembly Install Ignition Modules Install Rectiﬁ er-Regulator (if equipped) 1. Rotate ﬂ ywheel to position magnet away from 1. Install B+ terminal/lead into center position of ignition module bosses. rectiﬁ er-regulator plug so it locks in place, and connect plug to rectiﬁ er-regulator. 2.
Page 66 Reassembly 4. Install a new air cleaner base gasket and air cleaner Install External Governor Controls base onto mounting studs. Torque nuts to 6.2-7.3 N·m (55-65 in. lb.). Control Bracket Components 5. Connect breather hose to air cleaner base and secure with clamp.
Page 67 Reassembly 2. Torque screws as follows: 1. Connect pulse hose to valve cover. Valve cover should be situated between 2 formed lips on pulse M5 Blower Housing Screws: 6.2 N·m (55 in. lb.) in a hose. new hole, or 4.0 N·m (35 in. lb.) in a used hole. 2.

This manual is also suitable for:

Kt730 Kt735 Kt745 Kt725 Kt740

Kohler KT715 Service Manual

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Troubleshooting

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Summary of Contents for Kohler KT715

Page 15: Troubleshooting

Page 19: Air Cleaner/Intake

Page 20: Fuel System

Page 27: Governor System

Page 28: Lubrication System

Page 30: Electrical System

Page 36: Starter System

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