Kohler Fuel Solenoid Problems
Trouble cold-starting, the engine suddenly shuts off, erratic idling, and hesitant acceleration are all tell-tale symptoms of a bad mower fuel solenoid in action. You need to install a heat shield to protect the new solenoid from the heat radiating from the exhaust pipe and the engine. In this video I show how to install the Kohler Solenoid Repair Kit.
I thought it was the solenoid going bad and shutting off the fuel sporadically but perhaps it was just trash in the carb or something as it isn't doing that anymore after removing the bowl and shooting some carb fluid through all the passages--twice. By effectively blocking fuel flow to the carburetor when the ignition key switches to the "Off" position, excess fuel can't enter the combustion chamber, eliminating the potential for that annoying noise. If backfire still occurs, the fuel shutoff solenoid is suspect and requires investigation.
Learn how to perform a Kohler fuel solenoid replacement in minutes. Diagnose clicking issues and get your engine running again with our expert DIY guide. First, charge the battery with a known good charger, then LOAD TEST (basic's first).
If the battery passes, re-install and pull solenoid from carb. To test, leave the plunger in, turn on the ignition to run. The plunger should pull in / open.
If it does, it's functioning properly. After some testing, I discover fuel solenoid shuts when key is put in run position. I ran a jumper from the battery to fuel solenoid, and it will start and run great.
Understanding how the fuel solenoid functions and recognizing signs of failure can save time and money. This guide explores common Kohler fuel solenoid issues, their causes, and effective solutions to keep your engine running smoothly. This is not relevant to the power wire but, every Kohler I've worked on has had a ground wire between the carb and the engine block, since it is bolted onto the engine with a plastic insulator and gaskets.
Sure, it might have a ground between the carb body and mounting studs, or it might not. So, when you start your tractor or lawnmower, it passes power to the solenoid that regulates the fuel supply. Check the following symptoms of bad fuel solenoid to get a better idea.
