HomeEnginesKohler K301

Kohler K301 Engine Engine

The Kohler K301 is a 1-cylinder air-cooled engine rated at 3600 rpm, producing up to 12 kW. It powers generator sets from Kohler, including the ES799 and K-301.

Also known as: K301, Kohler K301

1
Cylinders
3600 rpm
Rated speed
12 kW
Gross power

Engine specifications

Cylinders1
Aspirationair-cooled
Rated speed3600 rpm
Gross power12 kW

Generator sets powered by this engine

2
Kohler ES799Kohler K-301

Troubleshooting

1

Fault codes

CodeMeaning
41Engine Overheats

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

Common problems

15
  • Starter not engaging
    Fix: Drive pinion may be spinning. Automotive crank plants only
  • S1 to terminal t3 on regulator open.
    Fix: *Correct connections.
  • No outflow (no exciter voltage-into AC volts)
    Cause: Regulator relay RR could be causing overcharged or undercharged battery--check this after resistor check
    Fix: Check contacts of relay CC may not be closing to complete battery charging circuit. Check brushes, AC leads, and AC armature for open circuits
  • No build-up.
    Cause: L Open circuit between battery and field. l Battery discharged.
    Fix: *Make correct connections. *l Charge battery.
  • Load relay L dirty or open contacts
    Fix: Check for dirty or open contacts--replace relay if needed
  • Insufficient load
    Fix: A load of 60 watts or more is needed to start automatic plant. A remote switch can be added to test run these plants--check diagrams
  • Generator output erratic.
    Cause: L Regulator sensing terminals not connected properly.
    Fix: *Check terminals 5 and 6 (120 V. connection) or terminals 5 and 7 (240 V. connection). *l Correct connections.
  • Generator faulty on plants with automotive cranking
    Fix: Check for faulty DC generator--excessive resistance in R2 resistor. If overcharging occurs, R2 resistance may be too little
  • Dirty commutator.
    Fix: *Clean commutator.
  • Cranking reset trips during cranking
    Fix: Reset the reset button--if plant still does not crank, check for open circuit
  • Cranking contactor C contacts do not close when switch is moved to on position
    Fix: Replace relay C
  • Choke heater circuit failure
    Cause: The choke valve could ‘stick’ the air cleaner
    Fix: Check the Ohm value of the resistor with a Volt-Ohmmeter. If faulty and allows higher voltage, it could cause the choke for starting
  • Check field circuit for open shunt
    Cause: Open field resistor connection
  • Center tap missing on three wire automatic plants
    Fix: Check for loose leads or missing center tap
  • Battery not being charged properly
    Cause: Check condition of battery--may be sulfated or have cracked cell. Replace as needed
    Fix: Check charge switch if left in HAND CRANK position, battery will not be charged

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler K301.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Oil filterMobil 1, 10W-30 synthetic oil25 hr find
OilResolute brand non-detergent 30 weight oil1.5 quarts25 hr

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

Aftermarket parts that fit this engine

27

Parts listed by aftermarket suppliers as fitting this engine — leads compiled from supplier catalogs; verify the exact part for your serial number.

Also used in

4
  • Jacobsen GREENS KING — Lawn Equipment
  • Jacobsen TURF KING — Lawn Equipment
  • Miller Electric ROUGHNECK 1 — Welder
  • Miller Electric ROUGHNECK 1A — Welder

Other equipment known to use this engine, via filter-application cross-reference — useful for sourcing parts even when your exact machine isn't listed elsewhere on this page.

Common questions

Which generators use the Kohler K301 engine?

The Kohler K301 powers 2 generator set(s), including Kohler ES799, Kohler K-301.

How often should you change the oil in the Kohler K301?

The Kohler K301 oil change interval is every 25 hours.

What is a common problem with the Kohler K301 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler K301 is: Starter not engaging. Fix: Drive pinion may be spinning. Automotive crank plants only.