Some Kohler engines are particular about a clean and - most importantly - the corrct OEM filter (they come with different filtration ratings - the wrong/dirty one can starve a running engine)...

Just checked with the air filter off, same thing. What are the valve settings supposed to be?

Baymee - sorry, my bad.. I was referring to the engine's fuel filter...

As to valve settings, if no better answer here, you should be able to that info from Kohler's website.

No adjustment on your valves (CV492S). There's a small jet next to the main venturi in the carb that gets restricted. Take a 10MM socket and that carbs is off in seconds.

I'm leaning towards the fuel pump, but I still don't understand why it would run for 5 minutes, then stall, then restart and run for 4 minutes, then stall, then restart for 3 minutes, etc.

It's not electrical because it starts surging like it's out of gas.

I'm going to try one more test before messing with the fuel pump. A small tank of gas connected directly to the fuel pump would eliminate the tractor's tank and fuel filter.

I am having a similar problem with a Kawasaki 20 horse on a Deere GT245. Except mine doesn't surge, it just runs for a short time and dies. Fuel pump and filter replaced, carb cleaned, fuel tank flushed out-- no effect. But the crazy thing is that it seems to work fine when it's at the shop, but as soon as I get it home, it dies again. I'm about to pull my hair out.

When they die suddenly like that, it could be ignition related. Does it restart immediately? Do you have time to check for spark as soon as it dies?

Possibly a remedy for others with a similar issue:

Problem solved.

I used an auxiliary fuel tank and hooked directly to the carb and then to the inlet of the filter before the fuel pump. The engine ran great. That only left the fuel tank and line.

I cut the tie wraps that held the gas line to the frame and emptied the tank at full flow, checking for dirt and then flushed the tank. No contamination in the tank. I took a look at the gas line where it was tied to the frame and the tie wraps had slightly pinched the hose at two points. Along with the fact that the gas hose was 5 years old and less rigid, the tie wraps were enough to cut the fuel flow to the motor.

Installed new gas line and ran the engine for one hour without stalling.

I'll buy that fix. Perhaps it would make sense to install a marine-type stainless clamp where the fuel line is supported but not crushed by a 10 cent tie wrap. The pulse pumps don't create much pressure (suction) so any restriction and your dead in the water. I think I'll do this with the yard mule ('93 GT6000 M20) as it's developed the symptoms you described. Thanks for the follow up.

The problem in my Kaw was finally traced to the fuel tank. The rubber grommet that seals the fuel feed line coming from the tank had disintegrated, allowing water and debris to get in the tank. The mechanic suspects ethanol is the culprit.

I had the same problem and after replacing the oem mechanical fuel pump and then trying 2 electric fuel pumps that burned out, I installed a vacuum fuel pump and now it runs great with no acceleration problems. The engine is 21 years old and runs great now.

I have an ongoing similar situation. Kohler 23hp SV820. Runs fine for a few moments, dies, will not restart, splutters a few times if you choke it.

I have disconnected from fuel pump, put a "squeeze bottle " on the carb inlet line. engine starts going dead, give the bottle a squeeze, no change. dribble fuel into the inlet air stream, engine picks up a few seconds, then repeat.

I have had the fuel solenoid off, it works, & does not release before current is switched off. it does not get hot.

I have had carb off engine, removed fuel bowl, float & needle valve.no visible damage or wear. I have blown through the inlet hose past the needle valve seat. I have blown out the jets. The orifice that the inlet solenoid needle seals in is not loose.

I have verified spark. what next?

cuppla ideas... Kohlers are finicky about wanting their "own" fuel filters. Make sure it's equipped with the OEM part called out for it, not some aftermarket product. Has to do with the filter's micron size.

when you clean a carb on these, gotta use a small dia stiff brass wire and a magnifier to probe every orifice/passageway in each component; then blow clean with compressed air. Rebuild using new valves/seats/gaskets from carb kit.

Also ck to see that fuel pump is putting out good flow while cranking engine.

I am having a similar problem with a Craftsman mower with a 25hp Kohler engine. I have replaced with new carb, new fuel pump, new plugs, new fuel filter, pulled and flushed and cleaned tank. Still stalls out like running out of fuel. Fuel pump does not seem to be pumping as it should. Not much fuel in fuel filter. Surprised that it even runs at all. Have to choke it to keep it running at all but will not smooth out. Ready to shoot it and put it and me out of our misery!

Does it seem to be running on one cylinder maybe? Does it initially seem to be running ok and then stall at some point?

lefar1974

I have cub cadet 2542 GT that having very similar problem. I have took off the gas tank clean and ran a new fuel line . Installed a new valve cover fuel pump, I can get fuel to the pump but not out of to the carb. I have clean the carb. and still will not run over a few seconds but if you push the chock down with your finger it will continue to run take your finger off will die .But will start right back up. I fix up the old cover were I could install a vac. pump . Still fuel to the pump but out to carb.

The primer circuit is clean however the main jet is fouled . You will need to soak the carb overnight in concentrated carb cleaner or completely disassemble the float and use a tie wrap and compressed air to clean out the main jet orifice .

Your gas caps not venting