HomeEnginesKohler CH 440

Kohler CH 440 Engine

The Kohler CH 440 is a 0.43 L air-cooled engine rated at 3600 rpm. It powers generator sets from Kohler and SDMO, including the 14RES, PERFORM 6500 GAZ TB UK, Perform 6500 and Perform 6500 XL. It holds 1.1 L (0.3 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Kohler CH 440, CH440

0.429 L
Displacement
3600 rpm
Rated speed
1.1 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity1.1 L
Displacement0.429 L
AspirationAir-cooled
Rated speed3600 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

6

Shared across brands: Kohler, SDMO

Kohler 14RESSDMO PERFORM 6500 GAZ TB UKSDMO Perform 6500SDMO Perform 6500 XLSDMO TECHNIC 6500 UKSDMO WELDARC 220 T

How to read your Kohler engine serial & model number →

Common problems

15
  • The generator set does not crank.
    Cause: Battery weak or dead.
    Fix: Recharge or replace the battery.
  • The generator set cranks but does not start, starts hard, lacks power, or operates erratically.
    Cause: Air cleaner clogged.
    Fix: Clean and/or replace the air cleaner.
  • Remote stop command received from a remote switch, ATS, or OnCuerPlus.
    Fix: Check the remote switch position. Check OnCuerPlus.
  • Overcrank shutdown.
    Fix: Reset the controller. If the overcrank fault occurs again, contact an authorized distributor/dealer.
  • No fuel.
    Fix: Check fuel valves and fuel supply.
  • No AC output.
    Cause: Line circuit breaker in the OFF position.
    Fix: Place the circuit breaker in the ON position.
  • Low output or excessive drop in voltage.
    Cause: Generator set overloaded.
    Fix: Reduce the load.
  • Low oil pressure shutdown.
    Fix: Check for oil leaks. Check the oil level and add oil if necessary.
  • Line circuit breaker tripping because of short circuit.
    Fix: Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service.
  • Line circuit breaker tripping because of overload.
    Fix: Reduce the load on the generator set.
  • Hot engine and exhaust system
    Fix: Do not work on the generator set until it cools.
  • Generator thermostat tripped.
    Fix: Check for obstructed air inlets and outlets. Reset the thermostat. See Section 5.5.
  • Generator set stops suddenly.
    Cause: Low oil pressure shutdown.
    Fix: Check for oil leaks. Check the oil level and add oil if necessary.
  • Generator set in the OFF mode.
    Fix: Press the RUN button to start the engine or press AUTO to allow remote starting.
  • Generator set circuit breaker trips repeatedly
    Fix: Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler CH 440.

Service intervals

17
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Oil levelCheck8 hrBefore each use or every 8 hours for extended operation
Engine oilChange100 hr12 mo14 kW models: 100 hours; 20 kW models: 150 hours
Oil (14 kW)Change100 hr12 mo
Air cleanerReplace150 hr300 hours shown; service more frequently under dusty/dirty conditions
Air cleaner serviceClean150 hr12 mo14 kW: 150/300 hours; 20 kW: 150/300 hours yearly
Oil (20 kW)Change150 hr12 mo
Oil filter (20 kW)Replace150 hr12 mo
Oil filterReplace200 hr12 mo14 kW models: 200 hours; 20 kW models: 150 hours
Oil filter (14 kW)Replace200 hr12 mo
Generator brushes and collector ringReplace300 hr12 moAuthorized distributor only
Spark plugsReplace300 hr12 mo150-300 hours shown
Crankcase breather hoseInspect500 hr12 moYearly or 500 hours
Air ducts and louversClean12 mo
BatteryCheck1 moCheck charger operation, charge rate
Fuel flexible lines and connectionsInspect3 moQuarterly; replace as necessary
Fuel pipingInspect12 moYearly
Main tank fuel supply levelCheck0 moWeekly

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

Service specifications

28
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
GapSpark plug0.03in.
GapSpark plug0.76mm
GapSpark plug gap0.51mm (0.02 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.7--0.8mm (0.028--0.030 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.76mm (0.03 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.8--0.9mm (0.03--0.04 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.89mm (0.035 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.9--1.0mm (0.036--0.04 in.)
OtherBattery wrap length1067 (42)mm (in.)
OtherBattery wrap length864 (34)mm (in.)
OtherHeater wrap rating50Watts
OtherHeater wrap rating65Watts
OtherPlug cord length75 (3)mm (in.)
OtherPower cord length1677 (66)mm (in.)
OtherPower cord length1830 (72)mm (in.)
OtherPower cord length483 (19)mm (in.)
PressureLPG fuel supply pressure1.7-2.7kPaat regulator inlet
PressureNatural gas fuel supply pressure1.2-2.7kPaat regulator inlet
TemperatureThermostat off temperature27C (80 F)
TemperatureThermostat on temperature16C (60 F)
TorqueSpark plug18ft. lb.
TorqueSpark plug22ft. lb.
TorqueSpark plug24.4Nm
TorqueSpark plug29.8Nm
TorqueSpark plug torque15Nm (11 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug torque18Nm (13.3 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug torque24.4--29.8Nm (18--22 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug torque25Nm (18 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 oil5W-30 or 10W-30API Service Class SG, SH, or SJ synthetic1.8 L14 kW models; synthetic oil oxidizes and thickens less
Engine oilSAE 15W40Sold by SDMO in 0.5 L (RBH0,5) and 1 L (RBH1) bottles
FuelNatural gas or propaneCertified for emergency standby use only
FuelNatural gas or LPGGenerator set is certified for emergency standby operation only

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

Fault codes

5
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
AC Sens LossAC Sensing LostIn Auto mode, generator output AC sensing is lost. Detection begins 10 seconds after crank disconnect.WarningContact authorized distributor/dealer for service
ATS ComErrorATS Communication ErrorWarning is displayed if ATS interface connection is lostWarningCheck communication wiring between transfer switch interface board and generator set
ATS PhaseRotATS Phase Rotation MismatchTransfer switch phase rotation does not match; ATS will not transferWarningCorrect the ATS connection per ATS Installation manual and labels
Accy PwrOverAccessory Power OverloadAn over current fault (short circuit) on the accessory controller power outputWarningContact authorized distributor/dealer for service
Battery CrLoBattery Crank LowEngine starting battery voltage falls below 11 VDC for more than 10 secondsWarningClears when battery voltage returns to acceptable level

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
RDC2 Voltage Calibration Using SiteTech adjustment

Tools: digital voltmeter, personal computer, SiteTech software

  1. Connect PC to controller via USB
  2. With generator off, connect multimeter across L1/L2 (AC volts)
  3. Start generator set
  4. Compare voltmeter reading to controller display
  5. Calculate new Genset Calibration Factor Voltage using (Vmeter / Vcontrol) x Fold = Fnew
  6. Enter new value into SiteTech and click Apply Changes
  7. Verify voltmeter matches controller display
  8. Repeat for L2-L3 and L3-L1 if three-phase
  9. Press OFF to stop generator set
RDC2 Voltage Calibration Using the Controller Keypad adjustment

Tools: digital voltmeter

  1. With generator off, connect digital multimeter across L1 and L2, set to AC volts
  2. Start generator set with RUN button
  3. Navigate to Generator Metering menu, press Select; Volts L1-L2 displayed
  4. Press Select; voltage number flashes
  5. Use up/down arrows to match voltmeter reading
  6. Press Select to confirm
  7. Step to Return screen
  8. Press OFF to stop generator set
Resetting the Maintenance Timer adjustment
  1. From Overview menu, step down to Genset Run Time menu.
  2. Press Select button and step down to Next Maintenance screen.
  3. Press Select button.
  4. Press Up arrow button so 'Reset Maint Timer? Yes' is displayed.
  5. Press Select button.
  6. Wait about two minutes for new maintenance interval and date to display.
VSC Current (Load) Calibration Using the Controller Keypad adjustment

Tools: clamp-on DC current probe or DC current meter

  1. Connect DC current probe/clamp meter to measure generator current
  2. Start generator with RUN button
  3. Adjust system voltage to obtain rated current output with battery bank attached (or use load bank)
  4. Trip output breaker
  5. Navigate to Generator Metering menu, select Generator Load
  6. Press and hold Select for No-Load Calibration; verify breaker open, confirm Yes
  7. Close output breaker; verify rated output current, confirm Yes
  8. Verify displayed load is correct; recalibrate if necessary
  9. Press OFF to stop generator set
Air Cleaner Element and Precleaner maintenance
  1. Disable set: press OFF button, disconnect battery charger power, remove battery cables, negative (--) lead first.
  2. Loosen the cover retaining knob(s) or release the retaining clips and remove the cover.
  3. Remove and discard the old air cleaner element and precleaner (if equipped).
  4. Install the precleaner over the new air cleaner element.
  5. Install the paper element onto the air cleaner base, making sure it is flat and properly seated.
  6. Reinstall the element cover, element cover nut, and the air cleaner cover; secure with the knob(s) or clips.
  7. 15RES/30RES and RCL models: wipe cover and housing with a clean rag and make sure sealing surfaces fit correctly.
  8. Reconnect the battery cable, negative (--) lead last.
Air Cleaner Service (14 kW Models) maintenance

⚠ Do not wash paper element or clean with pressurized air

  1. Press OFF button on generator set controller.
  2. Disconnect utility power.
  3. Disconnect engine starting battery, negative lead first.
  4. Loosen cover retaining knob and remove cover.
  5. Remove element cover nut, element cover, and paper element.
  6. Replace element if dirty, bent, or damaged.
  7. Check air cleaner base for security and damage.
  8. Check element cover for damage and fit.
  9. Remove any loose dirt or debris from air cleaner base.
  10. Wipe base carefully so no dirt enters intake throat.
  11. Check condition of rubber seal on air cleaner stud.
  12. Reinstall paper element, element cover, element cover nut, and air cleaner cover.
  13. Secure cover with cover retaining knob.
  14. Reconnect utility power.
  15. Reconnect engine starting battery, negative lead last.
Air Cleaner Service (20 kW Models) maintenance

⚠ Do not wash paper element or use pressurized air

  1. Loosen two cover retaining knobs and remove cover.
  2. Remove paper element.
  3. Replace dirty, bent, or damaged element.
  4. Handle new elements carefully; do not use if sealing surfaces are damaged.
  5. When servicing, check air cleaner base is secured and not damaged.
  6. Check element cover for damage or improper fit.
  7. Remove any loose dirt or debris from air cleaner base.
  8. Reinstall paper element onto air cleaner base ensuring flat and properly seated.
  9. Install air cleaner cover and secure with two retaining knobs.
  10. Order genuine Kohler parts for element replacement.
Firmware Update Using SiteTech maintenance

⚠ Do not load RDC2.4 firmware onto a red- or green-board controller

Tools: personal computer, USB cable, SiteTech software

  1. Download latest firmware file (.bin) from Kohler Power Resource Center or dealer portal
  2. Connect controller to PC via USB cable
  3. Start SiteTech; program recognizes connected device
  4. Click Update Firmware
  5. Browse to and select firmware file, click Open
  6. Verify current/new version and file name, click Update Firmware
  7. Wait for 'Firmware Updated Successfully' message, click Close
Oil Change Procedure maintenance

⚠ Drain oil while warm

⚠ Dispose of waste materials safely

Tools: Oil filter wrench, Oil collection container

  1. Press OFF button on generator set controller.
  2. Disconnect utility power to generator set.
  3. Disconnect engine starting battery, negative lead first.
  4. Remove housing side panel.
  5. Clean area around dipstick and oil fill cap.
  6. Remove oil drain hose from retaining clip and lower into collection container.
  7. Open oil drain valve on engine.
  8. Remove dipstick and oil fill cap; allow oil to drain completely.
  9. Close oil drain valve and replace cap on drain hose.
  10. Replace oil filter by rotating counterclockwise with wrench.
  11. Clean gasket sealing surface of oil filter adapter.
  12. Apply light coat of clean oil to rubber seal of new filter.
  13. Install new oil filter per filter instructions.
  14. Add recommended oil through oil fill port.
  15. Use dipstick to check oil level before adding final quart.
Oil and Oil Filter maintenance

⚠ Hot engine oil can cause severe injury or death. Avoid skin contact with hot oil.

⚠ Do not work on the generator set until it cools.

⚠ Accidental starting can cause severe injury or death. Remove the negative (--) lead first when disconnecting the battery.

Tools: Funnel, Drain tube (3/8 in. inside diameter), Catch basin / drain pan

  1. Disable set: press OFF button, disconnect battery charger power, remove battery cables, negative (--) lead first.
  2. Drain the oil while it is warm. On most models a drain plug is on the service side, opposite the starter.
  3. For most models remove one oil drain plug and the oil fill cap/dipstick; aim the drain tube into a catch basin.
  4. For most models open the valve near the oil sump and allow ample time for complete drainage.
  5. Close the valve and place the tube back in the clip on the bulkhead wall.
  6. For 8/10/12RESV(L), cover the alternator with rags near the oil drain valve and oil filter.
  7. For 8/10/12RESV(L), place a drain tube (3/8 in. inside diameter) onto the oil drain valve into a drain pan.
  8. For 8/10/12RESV(L), open the oil drain valve, remove the dipstick and oil fill cap, and drain completely.
  9. For 8/10/12RESV(L), close the oil drain valve and remove the oil drain tube.
  10. Remove the old filter, tilting it upward to prevent spilling, and wipe off the adapter/base on the engine.
  11. Place a new replacement filter open end up in a shallow pan; pour new oil (provided) through the threaded center hole to the bottom of threads.
  12. Allow a minute or two for the oil to be absorbed by the filter material.
  13. Apply a thin film of clean oil to the rubber gasket on the new oil filter.
  14. Install the new oil filter; hand tighten clockwise until the gasket contacts the adapter, then tighten an additional 3/4--1 turn.
  15. Fill the crankcase with new oil to the F/FULL mark on the dipstick; reinstall cap/dipstick, reconnect battery cable negative (--) lead last, test run, check for leaks, and recheck oil level.
Spark Plug Service maintenance

⚠ Clean area around spark plug to prevent unfiltered air entry

Tools: Wire feeler gauge, Spark plug socket

  1. Clean area around base of spark plug to keep dirt and debris out.
  2. Remove spark plug and check condition.
  3. Replace spark plug if worn or reuse is questionable.
  4. Check spark plug gap using wire feeler gauge.
  5. Adjust gap if needed by carefully bending ground electrode.
  6. Reinstall spark plug into cylinder head.
  7. Torque spark plug to 24.4-29.8 Nm (18-22 ft. lb.)
Spark Plugs maintenance

⚠ Servicing the air cleaner: a sudden backfire can cause severe injury. Do not operate with the air cleaner removed.

Tools: 13/16 in. socket, 5/8 in. spark plug socket, Wire feeler gauge, Torque wrench

  1. Disable set: press OFF button, disconnect battery charger power, remove battery cables, negative (--) lead first.
  2. Clean or blow out the area around the base of the plug(s) before removal to keep dirt out of the engine; wear eye protection.
  3. Using a spark plug socket, remove and discard the old spark plug(s).
  4. 24RCL, 30RCL, and 38RCLB: use a 13/16 in. socket. Other models: use a 5/8 in. spark plug socket.
  5. Check and set the gap of the new spark plug(s) using a wire feeler gauge.
  6. Adjust the gap by carefully bending the ground electrode.
  7. Apply a light coating of anti-seize lubricant to the spark plug threads and wipe away any excess compound.
  8. Install the new spark plug(s) and torque as shown in Figure 4.
  9. Reconnect the spark plug lead(s).
  10. Reconnect the battery cable, negative (--) lead last.

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

Voltage reconnection

VoltagePhaseConnectionLeadsNotes
100/2001Single
100/2003Delta
110/22012F5 4-lead4Single-phase dual voltage
110/2201Single
110/2203Delta
115/2301Single
12012F5 4-lead4Single-phase
1201SingleGenset System Voltage/Frequency/Phase table for controller setup
120/20832G5 12-lead12Three-phase
120/2083Wye
120/24012F5 4-lead4Single-phase dual voltage
120/2401Single
120/2403Delta
127/2203Wye
2201Single
220/38032G5 12-lead12Three-phase 50Hz
220/3803Wye
2301Single
230/4003Wye
2401Single
240/4163Wye
277/4803Wye

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

Aftermarket parts that fit this engine

5

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

Common questions

What is the oil capacity of the Kohler CH 440?

The Kohler CH 440 engine has an oil capacity of 1.1 liters.

What is the displacement of the Kohler CH 440?

The Kohler CH 440 has a displacement of 0.429 liters.

Which generators use the Kohler CH 440 engine?

The Kohler CH 440 powers 6 generator set(s), including Kohler 14RES, SDMO PERFORM 6500 GAZ TB UK, SDMO Perform 6500, SDMO Perform 6500 XL, SDMO TECHNIC 6500 UK.

What is a common problem with the Kohler CH 440 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler CH 440 is: The generator set does not crank.. Cause: Battery weak or dead.. Fix: Recharge or replace the battery..