Kohler Valve Cover Leak
In this video, I replace the leaking RTV and steel valve covers on my KOHLER twin with the o-ring and composite style commonly found on KOHLER Command Twins. Ok picked up a new mower a few weeks ago, and noticed this morning that one of the valve covers is leaking. It's a steel cover, and is tight.
IMHO it's a easy gasket change, and less work to do it myself, then have it sit around waiting for a warranty repair.... The right side valve cover on my 25 HP Kohler is leaking badly. We replaced the gasket (o-ring Kohler calls it) with an OEM one, but it still leaks oil like crazy.
For many proud owners of Kohler-powered machinery, this often points to a single, common culprit: a failing valve cover gasket. This section delves into why this seemingly small issue demands your immediate attention and sets the stage for a comprehensive guide to restoring your engine's integrity. Apply liberally and let that cure on a flat surface before installing the valve cover.
You can stick the gasket to the head too w/ Right Stuff if you wish. Activate and don't squeeze it all the way out. Silicone doesn't seem to hold even w/ an activator.
Ok, so repaired the leaky valve cover following "Taryl Fixes All" YouTube video (his updated one). Basically, black gasket maker adhesive on the valve cover. New OEM cork gasket on that.
Let it dry for about 12 hours. Then install it on the motor. Don't follow the 65in torque spec for a reinstalled valve cover that the Kohler manual says.
If it is a Kohler, Kohler has an update kit that puts the same plastic valve covers with o-rings in them the Kohler Command line of engines use and I have never had one come back that leaked again. Would this be just a gasket going bad or something more serious? If they are the black plastic covers, yes it would be likely that just the o-ring gaskets are leaking. But there is a problem.
Kohler has discontinue these o-rings. You must replace the covers with the new stamped steel covers. In this step-by-step video, Ill show you how to properly install a stamped steel valve cover on Kohler engines, including the popular Courage, 7000 Series, and other V-Twin models.
Persistent valve cover leaks on the Kohler 22 HP can stem from warped valve cover surfaces or improper sealing. Inspect the valve cover mating surface for warping or damage.
