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Kohler KD27V12 Engine

The Kohler KD27V12 is a 27 L 12-cylinder exhaust gas turbocharger (charge air cooled) engine rated at 1800 rpm. It powers generator sets from Kohler, including the GMKD900, KD1000 and KD900. It holds 27 L (7.1 gal) of oil and 27 L (7.1 gal) of coolant.

Also known as: Kohler KD27V12

Part of the Kohler KD27V12 engine family — 3 variants share parts & fitment.

27.0 L
Displacement
12
Cylinders
1800 rpm
Rated speed
27.0 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity27.0 L
Coolant capacity27.0 L
Displacement27.0 L
Cylinders12
AspirationExhaust gas turbocharger (charge air cooled)
Rated speed1800 rpm

Troubleshooting

3

Fault codes

CodeMeaningRemedy
M3.212APM INTERNAL power BATTERY WARNING
503Engine Over SpeedReduce engine load or check for mechanical issues.
601Generator Over TemperatureCool down generator and monitor temperature.

Fault codes and symptom→remedy steps extracted from this engine’s service/owner documentation; verify against the official manual before servicing.

Common problems

3
  • APM INTERNAL power BATTERY WARNING M3.212
  • Generator Over Temperature 601
    Fix: Cool down generator and monitor temperature.
  • Engine Over Speed 503
    Fix: Reduce engine load or check for mechanical issues.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler KD27V12.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterDusty Environment130000028-S1500 hr Amazon eBay
Fuel filterFuel/Water Separator330510016 Amazon eBay $33.15 NAPA $127.04
Oil filterCartridge230510001 Amazon eBay $40.80 NAPA $117.18
BatteryDusty Environment—1500 hr
BeltCrankcase breather belt—4000 hr
CoolantBASF GLYSANTIN G40/G4855.0 l—6000 hr
OilACEA E4/E7/E6/E9101.0 l—500 hr
Spark plugDusty Environment—1500 hr

Pooled from every document that names this exact engine — confirm the interval and part number against your unit's serial number.

Service specifications

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceThermostat stroke (A) with full opening15mm (0.6 in)Full opening
Other10 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B361.95mm (14.25 in.)
Other10 in. weld flange outside diameter C406.4mm (16.0 in.)
Other10 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D12, 25.40mm (1.00 in.)
Other12 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B431.80mm (17.00 in.)
Other12 in. weld flange outside diameter C482.6mm (19.0 in.)
Other12 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D12, 25.40mm (1.00 in.)
Other14 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B476.25mm (18.75 in.)
Other14 in. weld flange outside diameter C533.4mm (21.0 in.)
Other14 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D12, 28.58mm (1.13 in.)
Other16 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B539.75mm (21.25 in.)
Other16 in. weld flange outside diameter C596.9mm (23.5 in.)
Other16 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D16, 28.58mm (1.13 in.)
Other18 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B577.85mm (22.75 in.)
Other18 in. weld flange outside diameter C635.0mm (25.0 in.)
Other18 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D16, 31.75mm (1.25 in.)
Other20 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B635.00mm (25.00 in.)
Other20 in. weld flange outside diameter C698.5mm (27.5 in.)
Other20 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D20, 31.75mm (1.25 in.)
Other5 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B215.90mm (8.50 in.)
Other5 in. weld flange outside diameter C241.30mm (9.50 in.)
Other5 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D8, 22.23mm (0.88 in.)
Other6 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B254.0mm (10.0 in.)
Other6 in. weld flange outside diameter C279.4mm (11.0 in.)
Other6 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D8, 22.23mm (0.88 in.)
Other8 in. weld flange bolt circle diameter B298.45mm (11.75 in.)
Other8 in. weld flange outside diameter C342.9mm (13.5 in.)
Other8 in. weld flange quantity of bolts / bolt hole diameter D8, 22.23mm (0.88 in.)
OtherBattery charging alternator nominal current140ANominal, B+
OtherHP pump gear rotation (setting)135°Clockwise, measured at torque angle gage [10023839]
OtherWeld flange angle A (10, 12, 14 in. nominal pipe size)30deg.
OtherWeld flange angle A (16, 18, 20 in. nominal pipe size)22.5deg.
OtherWeld flange angle A (5, 6, 8 in. nominal pipe size)45deg.
PressureFuel pressure in fuel lines (engine running)2400bar (34810 psi)When the Diesel engine is running
PressureOil filter bypass valve2.5bar (36 psi)
PressurePressure limiting valve3.6bar (52 psi)
PressurePressure limiting valve5bar (73 psi)
PressurePressure limiting valve (cold start)10bar (145 psi)
PressureRemaining pressure to reduce to before work on fuel systembelow 10bar (145 psi)Engine switched off, using KODIA diagnostic program
SpeedStarter maximum actuation time30seconds
TemperatureEngine surface temperature before workbelow 50°C (122 °F)Engine cooled down
TemperatureThermostat fully open90°C (194 °F)
TemperatureThermostat start of opening82°C (179.6 °F)
TorqueB+ battery voltage connection (battery charging alternator)11 ±2Nm (8.1 ±0.15 ft lb)
TorqueB- earth connection (battery charging alternator)5.1 ±0.9Nm (3.8 ±0.7 ft lb)
TorqueBox nut M14x1.5 / M16x1.5 (injection lines), step 230Nm (22 ft lb)1st step hand tight; box nut reusable max. 2 times
TorqueBox nut M24x1.5 (pressure adapter), step 1 (B)5Nm (3.7 ft lb)Lubricant: engine oil; box nut not reusable
TorqueBox nut M24x1.5 (pressure adapter), step 2 (D)35Nm (26 ft lb)Lubricant: engine oil; box nut not reusable
TorqueCountersunk head screw M10-10.9 / Socket head screw M10-10.9 (belt tensioning device)47 ±5Nm (35 ±3.7 ft lb)Threadlock Loctite 243; degreased
TorqueD+ diagnosis connection (battery charging alternator)2 +0.3/-0.4Nm (8.8 +0.22/-0.3 ft lb)
TorqueHex bolt with collar M12x35-10.9 (starter)90Nm (66 ft lb)
TorqueHex collar nut M10 (starter electrical connection)24 ±4Nm (18 ±0.3 ft lb)
TorqueHex collar nut M6 (starter electrical connection)4 +0.6/-0.3Nm (3 +0.44/-0.22 ft lb)
TorqueHex screw M12-10.9 (lifting device)104 ±20Nm (76.7 ±14.7 ft lb)Component contact surfaces degreased; screws reusable
TorqueHex screw M8-8.8 (engine control unit add-on)10Nm (7.4 ft lb)Threadlock Loctite 243
TorqueHex screws M8x16-8.8 (injection line clamps), step 223Nm (17 ft lb)1st step hand tight; screws reusable
TorqueHexagon nut M4 (wiring harness at injector)1.2 +0.2/0Nm (0.88 +0.15/0 ft lb)
TorqueHexalobular screw M18x215 10.9 (belt tensioning device), step 1125Nm (92 ft lb)
TorqueHexalobular screw M18x215 10.9 (belt tensioning device), step 2250Nm (184 ft lb)
TorqueLock nut on adjusting screw of rocker arm45Nm (33 ft lb)

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Recommended fluids

FluidGradeStandardAmbientCapacityNotes
Engine oilengine oilUsed to lubricate threads, sealing surfaces and O-rings where specified
GreaseCopper paste; Motorex 140.85 kgSource MOTOREX
GreaseHigh temperature spray; Anti Seize ASW400.0 mlSource WEICON
GreaseOptimol White TCoating for cable bushing and cylinder head cover contact surfaces
GreaseStaburags NBU 301.2 kgGrease used for O-rings (e.g. injector, pressure adapter) and O-rings 100x5 / 12x2 / 132.94x3.53 / 78x3
OtherLoctite 243250.0 mlThreadlock; source LOCTITE. Thread must be cleaned, degreased and dried beforehand

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Procedures

12
Checking and setting the valve clearance adjustment

Tools: Allen key, Feeler gage, Torque wrench, Turning device [10123791]

  1. Fit the turning device [10123791].
  2. Turn crankshaft until cylinder 1 is in TDC position (cylinder 6 valves overlap).
  3. Set/check inlet valves 1-4-8-9.
  4. Set/check outlet valves 1-2-3-9-11-12.
  5. If play does not agree, unscrew lock nut and correct the setting.
  6. Tighten the lock nut with 45 Nm, holding the adjusting screw with the Allen key.
  7. Check the setting again.
  8. Turn the crankshaft 310° in direction of rotation; set/check inlet valves 2-3-10-11-12 and outlet valves 5-6-7-10.
  9. Turn the crankshaft 230° (TDC +540°); set/check inlet valves 5-6-7 and outlet valves 4-8.
  10. Install cylinder head cover with inspected, undamaged seals.
  11. Remove the turning device.
Checking the thermostat diagnostic
  1. Remove the thermostat.
  2. Check the engraved start of opening.
  3. Compare to technical data: start of opening 82°C, fully open 90°C, stroke with full opening 15 mm.
Installing the engine control unit installation

⚠ Damage through leaks.

⚠ Check the software version as soon as the electric power supply is switched on after a change of engine control unit.

  1. Make sure that the electric power supply from the battery is disconnected.
  2. Install the engine control unit mechanically.
  3. Replace the vibration damper when replacing the engine control unit.
  4. Connect the fuel lines to the engine control unit.
  5. Turn the fuel supply back on on the device side.
  6. Carefully connect the plug connectors A700A.X1, A700B.X2, A700C.X3 and A700D.X4.
  7. Perform a visual check of connections and seals for leaks.
  8. Connect the power supply between the battery and engine control unit.
  9. Check that the correct software is installed with a new engine control unit; carry out a software update if necessary.
  10. Start the engine and check its correct function.
Draining the coolant maintenance

⚠ Hot cooler fluid! Injuries, burns!

⚠ Coolant can cause injuries to the eyes and allergic skin reactions!

Tools: Drain hose [12690422], Drain hose [12690423]

  1. Place a reservoir beneath the Diesel engine.
  2. Carefully loosen the sealing plug on the equalizing reservoir until the overpressure is released, then open it.
  3. Open the protecting cap of the drain valves.
  4. Screw drain hose [12690422 or 12690423] on the drain valves one after the other.
  5. When the coolant has drained, unscrew the drain hose from the drain valves.
  6. Screw the protecting caps back into place.
Final check after starting maintenance

Tools: KODIA diagnostic program

  1. Stop the engine and carry out the following checks.
  2. Check the oil level.
  3. Check the coolant level.
  4. Perform a visual check for any leaks in the lines.
  5. Check the error messages in the KODIA diagnostic program.
  6. Check for error messages on the device side.
  7. Top off all fluids if necessary.
Fitting and removing the fastening pieces maintenance

⚠ The lifting device may be torn out and the engine can fall down.

⚠ Observe a maximum deviation of 10° between the perpendicular and the engine axis.

  1. Fit/remove ring bolt and lifting hook.
  2. Tighten hex screws with the specified torques.
  3. Use washer and socket head screws as shown.
Fitting the seal for the cylinder head cover maintenance

⚠ Oil contamination through incorrect seal installation.

⚠ The seal may be distorted by incorrect handling.

  1. Check seal for damage (deformation, visible cracks).
  2. Replace the seal if damaged.
  3. Open the cable bushing slightly by hand.
  4. Apply Optimol White T in the closure area and on the cable bushing.
  5. Insert the cable in the cable bushing.
  6. Apply Optimol White T to the contact surface to the cylinder head cover.
  7. Place the strand in the bushing and in the guide.
  8. Place the fastening inserts in the screw head.
  9. Tighten the strands on the injector (1.2 +0.2/0 Nm).
  10. Align the positions of the seal to the bore of the cylinder head.
  11. Visual check of the position of the seal; replace distorted seals.
  12. Fit the cylinder head cover so the seal does not move from the positioning.
Secure the Diesel engine against unexpected starting and recommission maintenance

⚠ Access to the maintenance zones must be secured against accidental starting before entering the safety zones.

  1. Disconnect electrical power supply and secure against reactivation.
  2. Label cut-off point.
  3. Complete installation, maintenance and repair activities.
  4. Make sure that all foreign bodies have been removed.
  5. Make sure all protective devices are installed and working properly.
  6. Make sure no external persons stand in the danger zones.
  7. Remove the label from the electrical power supply.
  8. Establish the electrical power supply.
Starting the engine operation

⚠ An unexpected start of the engine can cause severe injury or death.

⚠ Continuous actuation damages the starter.

⚠ Make sure the oil pressure builds up immediately after the engine is started.

Tools: KODIA diagnostic program

  1. Pay attention to the safety instructions in the chapter "Safety".
  2. Switch on the electrical power supply (battery voltage).
  3. Check that there are no error messages with the KODIA diagnostic program.
  4. Press the starter for a maximum of 30 seconds.
  5. If the engine does not start, wait at least two minutes then press the starter again for a maximum of 30 seconds.
  6. Wait at least five minutes before every subsequent attempt.
  7. If the engine still does not start, check all connections and operating materials; troubleshoot with KODIA.
Fitting the HP pump repair

⚠ If the angle has not been set correctly, the Diesel engine does not develop its full rated power.

Tools: Turning device [10123791], Torque angle gage [10023839]

  1. Fit the turning device [10123791].
  2. Ensure that the 1st cylinder is in ignition TDC.
  3. Position the shaft's oil feed bore horizontally.
  4. Replace the O-rings, oil and insert into the grooves.
  5. Install both HP pumps starting from the bottom at a 45° angle without twisting the shaft.
  6. Remove the protective caps from the fuel feed and return lines.
  7. Replace O-rings and screw connection.
  8. Connect connecting lines.
  9. Remove the inlet manifold.
  10. Remove the HP pumps' drive cover and remove the gear.
  11. Fit the torque angle gage [10023839] with attachment on the gear.
  12. Rotate the gear 135° clockwise, measured at the torque angle gage.
  13. Remove the torque angle gage with attachment.
  14. Fit the gear and tighten hex screws.
  15. Replace gasket, fit the HP pumps' drive cover and tighten hex screws.
Fitting the injector and pressure adapter repair

⚠ Leaks in the pressure adapter - the pressure adapter must be replaced after every removal.

⚠ Leaks in the HP connections - the box nut must be replaced after every removal.

Tools: Centering aid [10153847]

  1. Fit a new O-ring onto the injector and grease with NBU 30.
  2. Replace gasket (symmetrical, no set installation side).
  3. Insert the injector with fitted support lug into the cylinder head and align.
  4. Press the injector into the cylinder head by hand.
  5. Insert the centering aid [10153847] into the bore of the pressure adapter.
  6. Exert a slight pressure on the end face to center the injector bore.
  7. Fit the spherical washer, oil the socket head screw and tighten (5 Nm).
  8. Remove the centering aid.
  9. Grease a new O-ring for the pressure adapter with NBU 30.
  10. Install the pressure adapter so the centering lugs are flush with the recesses in the cylinder head.
  11. Tighten the box nut (5 Nm) then the socket head screw (28 Nm) then the box nut (35 Nm).
  12. Connect cable to injector.
Fitting the viscous damper and crankshaft add-on parts repair

Tools: Special tool [0528470]

  1. Degrease the contact surfaces between the viscous damper and the parts behind this.
  2. Fit the viscous damper carefully without moving the parts behind it.
  3. Degrease the contact surfaces between the pulley and the parts behind this.
  4. Fit the pulley carefully without moving the parts behind it.
  5. Grease the new hexalobular screws with engine oil.
  6. Fit the hexalobular screws 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 and tighten hand tight.
  7. Remove the mounting bolts [0528470].
  8. Fit the remaining hexalobular screws and tighten hand tight.
  9. Tighten all hexalobular screws according to the tightening instruction.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Parts cataloged across the Kohler KD27V12 family

18
Part #DescriptionCategory
12690422Manguera de evacuación rectaHose
12690423Manguera de evacuación de 90°Hose
0524072Extractor de percusiónService part / kit
0528470Perno de montaje M16x180Service part / kit
10020852Herramienta de montaje para conductos de alta presión, ancho de boca 17Service part / kit
10023839Dispositivo de ángulo de giro para accionamiento de 1/2"Service part / kit
10123791Accionamiento manualService part / kit
10148425Punta de repuesto de la herramienta de montaje para inyector [10153847]Service part / kit
10153847Centrador auxiliarService part / kit
10289118Herramienta de montaje para conductos de alta presión, ancho de boca 19Service part / kit
10815480Dispositivo de elevaciónService part / kit
11171015Herramienta de montaje para conductos de alta presión, ancho de boca 22 / 3/8"Service part / kit
11213360Pieza corredera en T para el dispositivo de elevación [10815480]Service part / kit
11355589Herramienta de desmontaje para el inyectorService part / kit
12440945AdaptadorService part / kit
12450696Etiqueta colganteService part / kit
230612803Fuel Line Replacement KitService part / kit
7014716Herramientas TorxService part / kit

Parts cataloged across all variants of this engine family — verify the exact part fits your specific variant and serial number before ordering.

Common questions

What is the oil capacity of the Kohler KD27V12?

The Kohler KD27V12 engine has an oil capacity of 27.0 liters.

What is the displacement of the Kohler KD27V12?

The Kohler KD27V12 has a displacement of 27.0 liters with 12 cylinders.

Which generators use the Kohler KD27V12 engine?

The Kohler KD27V12 powers 4 generator set(s), including Kohler GMKD900, Kohler KD1000, Kohler KD27V12, Kohler KD900.

How often should you change the oil in the Kohler KD27V12?

The Kohler KD27V12 oil change interval is every 500 hours.

What is a common problem with the Kohler KD27V12 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler KD27V12 is: APM INTERNAL power BATTERY WARNING.