Electrical System Carbon Fouled ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEMS Ignition System Components Soft, sooty, black deposits indicate incomplete combustion caused by a restricted air cleaner, over rich carburetion, weak ignition, or poor compression. Overheated These engines are equipped with a capacitive discharge (CD) coil. This ignition system is 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. Mechanical systems do occasionally fail or break down. Refer to Troubleshooting to determine root of a reported problem. Reported ignition problems are most often due to poor connections.
Before beginning test procedure, check all external wiring. Be certain all ignition-related wires are connected, including spark plug leads. Be certain all terminal connections fi t snugly. Make sure ignition switch is in run position. 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. A typical fi xed ignition system consists of: ● 1 magnet assembly which is permanently affi xed to fl ywheel. ● 2 electronic capacitive-discharge ignition modules which mount on engine crankcase. ● 1 kill switch (or key switch) which grounds modules to stop engine. ● 2 spark plugs.
Chalky, white deposits indicate very high combustion temperatures. This condition is usually accompanied by excessive gap erosion. Lean carburetor settings, an intake air leak, or incorrect spark timing are normal causes for high combustion temperatures. BATTERY A 12-volt battery with 400 cold cranking amps (cca) is generally recommended for starting in all conditions. A smaller capacity battery is often suffi cient if an application is started only in warmer temperatures. Refer to following table for minimum capacities based on anticipated ambient temperatures. Actual cold cranking requirement depends on engine size, application, and starting temperatures.
Cranking requirements increase as temperatures decrease and battery capacity shrinks. Refer to equipment's operating instructions for specifi c battery requirements. Battery Size Recommendations If battery charge is insuffi cient to turn over engine, recharge battery. Battery Maintenance Regular maintenance is necessary to prolong battery life. Battery Test To test battery, follow manufacturer's instructions. 66 690 01 Rev.
C KohlerEngines.com 29 F A E B D C A Kill Switch/ Off Position of Key Switch B Air Gap C Flywheel D Magnet E Spark Plug F Ignition Modules Temperature Battery Required Above 32°F (0°C) 200 cca minimum 0°F to 32°F (-18°C to 0°C) 250 cca minimum -5°F to 0°F (-21°C to -18°C) 300 cca minimum -10°F (-23°C) or below 400 cca minimum