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Kohler CH 980 Engine

The Kohler CH 980 is a 1 L 2-cylinder engine rated at 3000 rpm. It powers generator sets from Kohler and SDMO, including the 17RES, 18RES, 18TRES and RES 16 TEC. It holds 2.8 L (0.7 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Kohler CH 980

Part of the Kohler CH980 engine family — 3 variants share parts & fitment.

0.999 L
Displacement
2
Cylinders
3000 rpm
Rated speed
2.8 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity2.8 L
Displacement0.999 L
Cylinders2
Rated speed3000 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

4

Shared across brands: Kohler, SDMO

How to read your Kohler engine serial & model number →

Common problems

15
  • 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.
  • Generator set stops suddenly
    Cause: Low oil pressure shutdown
    Fix: Check the oil level. Check for signs of oil leaks.
  • Generator set stops suddenly.
    Cause: Low oil pressure shutdown
    Fix: Check the oil level.
  • Controller LED display is off
    Cause: No power to the controller: Controller fuse (F3) is blown.
    Fix: Replace the fuse. If the fuse blows again, contact an authorized distributor/dealer.
  • The generator set does not crank.
    Cause: Fault shutdown
    Fix: Check for a fault code on the controller display. See Section 2.6.
  • 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.
  • The generator set does not crank
    Cause: Fault shutdown
    Fix: Check for a fault code on the controller display. See Section 2.7.
  • Red LED stays on for more than 24 hours
    Cause: One or more inoperative or damaged cells.
    Fix: Load test the battery and replace, if necessary
  • Red and green LEDs stay on for more than 24 hours
    Cause: Onboard DC systems are drawing between 1.5 and 5 amps.
    Fix: Turn off all DC equipment while charging.
  • Green LED stays on when the battery is known to be low
    Cause: Open DC output fuse.
    Fix: Replace AGS-10 fuse.
  • No AC output
    Cause: AC circuit breaker in the OFF position
    Fix: Place the circuit breaker in the ON position.
  • No AC output.
    Cause: AC circuit breaker in the OFF position
    Fix: Place the circuit breaker in the ON position.
  • Neither of the LEDs turn on when the AC power is applied
    Cause: No AC power available at the battery charger.
    Fix: Connect AC power or reset the AC breaker on the main panel.
  • Undervoltage shutdown — Shutdown occurs if the voltage falls below 80% of the nominal system voltage for more than 10 seconds. UU
    Fix: Reduce the load and restart the generator set.; Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
  • The generator set also shuts down on OC if no engine rotation is sensed during cranking. Shuts down 3 seconds after the fault is detected. Locked rotor

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler CH 980.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterreplaceable, high density paper air cleaner element—
Oil filter—150 hr
Oil2.8 L—150 hr
Spark plug0.76 mm (0.030 in.)—

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

Service intervals

40
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Oil levelCheck8 hr8 hours or before use; 8.5/12 kW models
Air cleaner and precleaner (8.5/12RES)Replace100 hr12 moYearly or 100 hours; replace as necessary
Air cleaner and precleaner serviceClean100 hrYearly or 100 hours; 8.5/12 kW models; service more often in dusty/dirty conditions
Air cleaner and precleaner serviceReplace100 hrYearly or 100 hours, 8.5/12 kW models; replace as necessary
Air cleaner and precleaner service (8.5/12 kW)Replace100 hrYearly or 100 hours; service more frequently under dusty/dirty conditions
Engine oilChange150 hr12 mo8.5/12RES: yearly or 100 hours
Oil coolerClean100 hrYearly or 100 hours; 17/18 kW models
Oil coolerInspect100 hrYearly or 100 hours (17/18 kW models)
Oil cooler (17/18RES)Clean100 hr12 moYearly or 100 hours; inspect and clean
Air cleaner serviceClean150 hrYearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Air cleaner serviceReplace300 hrYearly or 150 hours shown (300 hours also listed), 17/18 kW models
Air cleaner service (17/18 kW)Replace150 hrYearly or 150/300 hours
Change oilChange150 hrYearly or 150 hours, 17/18 kW models
Engine oil (17/18RES)Change150 hr12 moYearly or 150 hours
OilChange150 hrYearly or 150 hours; 17/18 kW models
Oil filter (17/18RES)Replace150 hr12 moYearly or 150 hours
Spark plugsClean150 hrYearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Spark plugs (17/18 kW)Replace150 hrYearly or 150/300 hours
Oil filterReplace200 hr12 moYearly or 200 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Replace filter (oil filter)Replace200 hrYearly or 200 hours (8.5/12 kW models)
Air cleaner serviceChange300 hrYearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Spark plugsCheck300 hrYearly or 300 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Spark plugsReplace300 hrYearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Spark plugs (8.5/12 kW)Replace300 hrYearly or 300 hours
Spark plugs (8.5/12RES)Check300 hr12 moYearly or 300 hours
Crankcase breather hoseCheck500 hr12 moYearly or 500 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Crankcase breather hoseInspect500 hrYearly or 500 hours
Replace stepper motor coupling and bushingReplace500 hr500 hours; authorized distributor/dealer only
Stepper motor coupling and bushingReplace500 hrAuthorized distributor/dealer only; 8.5/12 kW models
Wire-cable insulation conditionInspect500 hr36 mo3 years or 500 hours
Wire-cable insulation conditionTest500 hr3 years or 500 hours
Air ducts, louversClean12 moYearly
Battery and rackClean12 moYearly; remove corrosion, clean and dry
Battery and rack corrosionClean12 moYearly; clean and dry battery and rack
Battery charger operation, charge rateCheck1 moMonthly
Battery electrolyte level and specific gravityCheck12 moYearly; not necessary for maintenance-free batteries
Battery terminalsClean12 moYearly; clean and tighten
Battery terminals and bootsCheck12 moYearly; clean and tighten terminals, inspect boots
Brushes and collector ringInspect12 moYearly; authorized distributor/dealer only
Control and power wiring connectionsCheck12 moYearly; tighten connections

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

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
GapSpark Plug Gap 12/17/18RES0.76mm (0.030 in.)
GapSpark Plug Gap 8.5kW0.51mm (0.020 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.51mm (0.02 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.7--0.8mm (0.028--0.030 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.76mm (0.030 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.)
GapSpark plug gap, 12/17/18RES0.76mm (0.030 in.)cold
GapSpark plug gap, 8.5 kW0.51mm (0.020 in.)cold
OtherBattery minimum cold cranking amps525CCAat 0F
OtherCombustion air requirement (60 Hz)1.1 (39.2)m3/min. (cfm)60 Hz
OtherCombustion air requirement (60 Hz)1.62 (57.3)m3/min. (cfm)60 Hz
OtherCooling air requirement (60 Hz)26.9 (950)m3/min. (cfm)60 Hz
OtherCooling air requirement (60 Hz)28.0 (989)m3/min. (cfm)60 Hz
OtherEngine oil capacity1.9L (2.0 qt.)
OtherEngine oil capacity2.8L (3.0 qt.) approximately
OtherExhaust flow at rated kW3.8 (135)m3/min (cfm)at rated kW
OtherExhaust flow at rated kW5.3 (187)m3/min (cfm)at rated kW
OtherFuel flow rate, LP vapor203000Btu/hr.
OtherFuel flow rate, LP vapor280000Btu/hr.
OtherFuel flow rate, natural gas193000Btu/hr.
OtherFuel flow rate, natural gas242000Btu/hr.
OtherFuel system leak test pressure6-8 ounces per square inch (10-14 inches water column)oz/in²LPG vapor or natural gas system
OtherNominal fuel rating, LP vapor2500Btu/ft3
OtherNominal fuel rating, natural gas1000Btu/ft3
OtherOverfrequency shutdown threshold110% of system frequency setpointmore than 5 seconds, active 10s after start
OtherTotal inlet air requirement (60 Hz)28.0 (990)m3/min. (cfm)60 Hz
OtherTotal inlet air requirement (60 Hz)29.6 (1045)m3/min. (cfm)60 Hz
OtherUnderfrequency shutdown threshold54Hzmore than 5 seconds (or below 56.5 Hz for more than 60 seconds)
PressureFuel supply pressure, LP vapor1.7--2.7 (7-11)kPa (in. H2O)
PressureFuel supply pressure, natural gas1.3--2.7 (5-11)kPa (in. H2O)
PressureFuel supply pressure, natural gas1.7--2.7 (7-11)kPa (in. H2O)
PressureFuel system leak test (LP vapor or natural gas)6--8 ounces per square inch (10--14 inches water column)oz/in2system pressurized, soap and water solution
PressureGas fuel system leak test pressure6--8ounces per square inch (10--14 inches water column)fuel system test pressurized; use soap and water solution without ammonia or chlorine
PressureGas fuel system leak test pressure6--8 (10--14)ounces per square inch (inches water column)fuel system test pressurized
PressureLP/natural gas fuel system leak test6--8 ounces per square inch (10--14 inches water column)soap and water solution test pressure
PressureLow oil pressure shutdown24.1 ±13.8kPa (3.5 psi ±1.5 psi)
SpeedCrank cycle15seconds crank and 15 seconds off, 3 attemptsstarting
SpeedCrank cycle15 seconds crank and 15 seconds off, 3 attemptsseconds
SpeedCut-in frequency47.5Hz50 Hz units
SpeedCut-in frequency57.5Hz60 Hz units
SpeedOverfrequency shutdown threshold110% of system frequency setpoint for more than 5 seconds%active 10 seconds after engine start
SpeedOverspeed shutdown threshold110% of normal running speedmore than 0.3 seconds
SpeedOverspeed shutdown threshold110% of normal running speed for more than 0.3 seconds%
SpeedRated engine speed3000rpm50 Hz operation
SpeedRated engine speed3600rpm60 Hz operation
SpeedUnderfrequency shutdown thresholdbelow 54 Hz for more than 5 seconds; below 56.5 Hz for more than 60 secondsHzactive 10 seconds after engine start
TemperatureBattery heater thermostat ON / OFF16-18 °C (60-65 °F) on; 27 °C (80 °F) off°C
TemperatureCarburetor heater thermostat OFF16 ± 3°C60 ± 5 °F
TemperatureCarburetor heater thermostat ON4 ± 3°C40 ± 5 °F
TemperatureCarburetor heater thermostat ON4 ± 4C (40 ± 7F)
TemperatureExhaust gas temperature exiting the enclosure at rated load216 (420)C (F)at rated kW
TemperatureThermostat OFF16 ± 3°CThermostat OFF (60 ± 5°F)
TemperatureThermostat ON4 ± 4°CThermostat ON (40 ± 7°F)
TorqueSpark Plug Torque24.4-29.8Nm (18-22 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug18-22ft. lb.
TorqueSpark plug24.4--29.8Nm (18--22 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug24.4-29.8Nm
TorqueSpark plug torque15Nm (11 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-30API Service Class SG, SH, or SJ synthetic2.8 L18 kW models; approximately 2.8 L (3.0 qt.)
Engine oilSAE 15W40Sold by SDMO in 0.5 L (RBH0,5) and 1 L (RBH1) bottles
Engine oilSyntheticAPI Service Class SG or higherUse synthetic oil, API Service Class SG or higher
Engine oilSynthetic oilAPI Service Class SG or higherMaintain oil level at or near, not over, the full mark on the dipstick. See TP-6517 Operation Manual for additional information.
Engine oil10W-30; 5W-20, 5W-30API Service Class SG, SH, or SJ synthetic-30°C to 40°C1.9 L12 kW models; select viscosity based on air temperature expected before next oil change
FuelLP vaporNominal fuel rating 93 MJ/m3 (2500 Btu/ft.3). Fuel supply inlet 1/2 NPT.
FuelLP vapor, 93 MJ/m3 (2500 Btu/ft3)Nominal fuel rating
FuelLPGFuel supply pressure 1.7-2.7 kPa (7-11 in H2O); nominal fuel rating 2500 Btu/ft3 (93 MJ/m3); supply inlet 1/2 NPT
FuelNatural GasFuel supply pressure 1.3-2.7 kPa (5-11 in H2O) for 8.5/12RES, 1.7-2.7 kPa (7-11 in H2O) for 18RES; nominal fuel rating 1000 Btu/ft3 (37 MJ/m3); supply inlet 1/2 NPT
FuelNatural gasNominal fuel rating 37 MJ/m3 (1000 Btu/ft.3). Fuel supply inlet 1/2 NPT.
FuelNatural gas or propane (LP) vaporField-convertible multi-fuel; CARB emission certifiedClean-burning natural gas or propane (LP) vapor; air-cooled engine, no liquid coolant
FuelNatural gas, 37 MJ/m3 (1000 Btu/ft3)Nominal fuel rating
Fuelnatural gas or propane (LP) vaporField-convertible multi-fuel system maintaining CARB emission certification
OtherBicarbonate of soda (baking soda) and water solutionBattery acid cleanup: 500 g (1 lb.) bicarbonate of soda to 4 L (1 gal.) water; also used to clean battery and cables
OtherPetroleum jelly, silicone grease, or other nonconductive greaseCoat battery terminals after reconnecting cables

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

15
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
AFAuxiliary fault input shutdownShutdown initiated by pushing the emergency stop switch (TRES models only). Not used on RES models.ShutdownCheck the position of the emergency stop button (TRES models only).
CCCrank cycle
HBHigh battery voltage warningDisplayed if engine starting battery voltage rises above 16 VDC for more than 30 seconds when engine is running.WarningCheck the battery rating and condition; check battery charger operation.
HEHigh engine temperature shutdownShutdown occurs if the engine coolant temperature exceeds the maximum for more than 5 seconds. Active after engine reaches crank disconnect speed.ShutdownCheck for blocked air inlets and exhaust outlets.
LBLow battery voltage warningDisplayed if engine starting battery voltage falls below 11 VDC for more than 30 seconds when engine is not running.WarningCheck the battery rating and condition; check battery charger operation; charge or replace battery.
LCLLow coolant levelFMI 1, SPN 0x006F
LO PLow oil pressure shutdownShutdown occurs if a low oil pressure condition exists for more than 5 seconds. Active 30 seconds after crank disconnect speed. Does not protect against low oil level.ShutdownCheck for leaks in the lubrication system. Check the oil level and add oil if the level is low.
LOCLoss of coolantFMI 1, SPN 0x006F
LOPLow oil pressure shutdownShutdown occurs if a low oil pressure condition exists for more than 5 seconds. Active 30 seconds after crank disconnect speed.ShutdownCheck for leaks in lubrication system; check oil level and add oil if low.
OCOvercrank shutdownShutdown after 3 unsuccessful starting attempts (15s crank, 15s rest each). Also on locked rotor if no engine rotation sensed during cranking.ShutdownCheck fuel supply, spark plug, battery, loose connections. Contact dealer if problem continues.
OFOverfrequency shutdownShutdown occurs when governed frequency exceeds 110% of system frequency setpoint for more than 5 seconds. Active 10 seconds after engine start.ShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
OSOverspeed shutdownShutdown occurs if engine speed exceeds 110% of normal running speed for more than 0.3 seconds.ShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
OUOvervoltage shutdownShutdown occurs if voltage exceeds 120% of system nominal voltage for more than 2 seconds.ShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
UFUnderfrequency shutdownShutdown occurs if governed frequency falls below 54 Hz for more than 5 seconds, or below 56.5 Hz for more than 60 seconds. Active 10 seconds after engine start.ShutdownReduce load and restart; contact dealer if problem continues.
UUUndervoltage shutdownShutdown occurs if voltage falls below 80% of nominal system voltage for more than 10 seconds.ShutdownReduce load and restart; contact dealer if problem continues.

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
ADC-RES Controller Configuration (Cn setting) adjustment

⚠ The controller automatically exits configuration mode without saving changes after about 1 minute if no buttons are pressed.

  1. Enter the configuration mode while the engine is not running by following the Figure 26 sequence.
  2. Step through the parameters to the communication setting Cn parameter.
  3. Use the up and down arrow buttons to change the Cn setting to Cn01, if necessary.
  4. Press to SAVE CHANGES (YES) before exiting the configuration mode.
  5. Move the generator set master switch to OFF/RESET.
Frequency Adjustment Procedure adjustment

Tools: frequency meter

  1. Attach a frequency meter to the AC output leads or an outlet on the load side of the generator set.
  2. Start and run the generator set, then adjust engine governor speed to set output frequency (3600 rpm for 60 Hz, 3000 rpm for 50 Hz).
Procedure to Convert from NG to LP adjustment

⚠ Explosive fuel vapors. Can cause severe injury or death. Use extreme care when handling, storing, and using fuels.

⚠ Accidental starting. Disconnect the battery cables before working on the generator set; remove the negative (--) lead first.

Tools: Gas leak detector, Wrench (to hold fuel solenoid valve)

  1. Place the generator set master switch in the OFF position.
  2. Disconnect the power to the battery charger.
  3. Disconnect the generator set engine starting battery, negative (--) lead first.
  4. Turn off the fuel supply.
  5. Remove the hose clamp and fuel hose from the hose fitting.
  6. Place the orifice into the hose fitting.
  7. Slide the hose onto the hose fitting and secure it with the clamp.
  8. Disconnect the digital spark-advance module (DSAI) leads for LP (connect the leads for natural gas).
  9. Connect and turn on the new fuel supply.
  10. Check that the generator set master switch is in the OFF position.
  11. Reconnect the generator set engine starting battery leads, negative (--) lead last.
  12. Reconnect power to the battery charger.
  13. Start the generator set by moving the generator set master switch to the RUN position.
  14. Check for leaks using a gas leak detector.
  15. Move the generator set master switch to the OFF/RESET position to shut down the generator set.
Voltage Adjustment Procedure adjustment

Tools: digital multimeter

  1. With the generator set off, connect a digital multimeter to the output leads or an outlet on the load side; set meter to AC voltage.
  2. Start the generator set by moving the master switch to RUN.
  3. Use the ADC controller to adjust the voltage (parameter 1P) until output voltage reaches the desired value.
  4. Adjust the voltage stability (gain, parameter 2P) to minimize light flicker.
  5. Readjust the voltage if necessary.
  6. Set the multimeter to measure frequency.
  7. Adjust engine speed to the cut-in frequency (57.5 Hz for 60 Hz units, 47.5 Hz for 50 Hz units) via engine governor speed (parameter 4P).
  8. Adjust the volts/Hz (parameter 3P) until voltage begins to drop as load is applied at cut-in frequency.
  9. Reset engine speed to operating frequency (50 or 60 Hz) via parameter 4P.
  10. Readjust voltage stability (parameter 2P) if necessary.
  11. Readjust voltage (parameter 1P) if necessary.
  12. Save settings.
  13. Stop the generator set.
Network Bridge Diagnostics diagnostic
  1. Check the network LEDs on the RJ45 connector for Ethernet network communication.
  2. Check the STAT LED; if not lit, check connections and the engine starting battery.
  3. Check the TX and RX LEDs for CAN data transmission and reception.
  4. If neither the TX nor the RX LED flashes, check bridge power, connections, and settings.
  5. If only one of the TX or RX LEDs flashes, check the connected devices on the generator set (CAN) side.
Resetting Controller after a Fault Shutdown diagnostic

⚠ Always identify and correct the cause of a fault shutdown before resetting the controller.

  1. Move the generator set master switch to OFF/RESET.
  2. Disconnect the generator set from the load using the line circuit breaker or ATS.
  3. Identify and correct the cause of the fault shutdown.
  4. Start the generator set by moving the master switch to RUN; test operate to verify the cause is corrected.
  5. Move the master switch to OFF/RESET.
  6. Reconnect the generator set to the load using the line circuit breaker or ATS.
  7. Move the master switch to AUTO for startup by remote transfer switch or remote start/stop switch.
15/30RES and 15/30RYG Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP2) installation
  1. Remove the junction box panel to gain access to the inside of the junction box.
  2. Drill two 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) mounting holes in the top of the junction box.
  3. Install network bridge GM58703 inside the junction box using two screws M7985A-0410-20, washers M125A-04-80, and nuts M934-04-50.
  4. Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.
15/30RESA and 15/30REYG Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP4) installation
  1. Remove the junction box panel to gain access to the inside of the junction box.
  2. Drill two 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) mounting holes in the top of the junction box.
  3. Install network bridge GM58703 inside the junction box using two screws M7985A-0410-20, washers M125A-04-80, and nuts M934-04-50.
  4. Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.
17/18RES Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP1) installation
  1. Open the enclosure and remove the front panel to access the controller junction box. Cover internal components.
  2. Drill a hole for the customer-supplied Ethernet cable at the location shown.
  3. Drill a 38.1 mm (1.5 in.) hole in the bottom of the junction box. Insert bushing X-634-28.
  4. Route connector P21 of Y-harness GM62626 through this opening.
  5. Drill two 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) mounting holes in the front panel at the locations shown.
  6. Use two screws M7985A-04010-20, washers X-6278-8, and nuts M934-04-50 to mount network bridge GM58703.
  7. Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.
8.5/12RES Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP3) installation
  1. Remove existing junction box panel GM60625. Save the hardware and seal for reuse.
  2. Mount network bridge GM58703 onto the new panel using two screws X-51-15, washers M125A-04-80, and nuts M934-04-50.
  3. Install new J-box panel GM66795 as shown. Use the existing hardware and seal X-6422-31.
  4. Affix decal GM54820 in the location shown.
  5. Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.
Assign Bridge IP Address installation

Tools: DeviceInstaller software

  1. Launch DeviceInstaller from the Windows Start button.
  2. In the DeviceInstaller menu, click View then Details.
  3. Click the Search button on the toolbar.
  4. Find the device whose hardware address matches the MAC address printed on the network bridge label.
  5. Click the Assign IP button in the toolbar.
  6. If no IP address is assigned, enter the bridge's hardware (MAC) address and click Next.
  7. Select Assign a Specific IP Address and click Next.
  8. Type the bridge IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway in dotted decimal notation. Click Next.
  9. Click the Assign button to assign the IP settings.
  10. Click the Finish button to close the Wizard.
Battery Installation Procedure installation

⚠ Sulfuric acid in batteries. Can cause severe injury or death. Wear protective goggles and clothing.

⚠ Explosion. Relays in the battery charger cause arcs or sparks. Locate the battery in a well-ventilated area.

  1. Ensure that the starting battery is fully charged before placing the battery in service.
  2. Clean the battery posts and/or adapters if necessary.
  3. Install the battery post adapters, if needed.
  4. Place the battery in the housing.
  5. Verify that the controller master switch is in the OFF position.
  6. Connect the positive (+) lead to the engine starting battery.
  7. Connect the negative (--) lead to the engine starting battery.

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
DSAI (Digital Spark Advance) leads65 and N5Connect for natural gas; disconnect for LP
Field-connection terminal block — L1 and L2Leads from transfer switch emergency source lugs to L1 and L2See decal near the terminal block for connections
Remote startEngine start leads from terminals 3 and 4Route engine start leads through separate conduit from AC power and load leads
single phaseField-connection terminal blockL1, L2 (load), L0 (neutral), GRD (ground), terminals 3 and 4 (engine start)Connect transfer switch emergency source leads to L1 and L2; neutral L0 and ground GRD from ATS and main panel; engine start leads to terminals 3 and 4. Generator sets shipped with neutral bonded to ground in junction box; neutral may be grounded or lifted/is isolated if installation requires ungrounded neutral. See Section 2 wiring diagrams: 12RESL/12RESM1 schematic ADV-7325, point-to-point GM51414; 18RESL schematic ADV-7353, point-to-point GM52541.
120 VACUtility Power terminals on field-connection terminal blockUtility power circuit must be backed up by the generator set

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 CH980 family

16
Part #DescriptionCategory
62 083 01-SElement, air filterAir filter
RSP-FT-03-US-01Pack first: complete service kit comprising air filter, air pre filter, spark plugs and oil filter.Air filter
RSP-FT-05-US-01Pack first: complete service kit comprising air filter, air pre filter, spark plugs and oil filter.Air filter
25 158 08-SBushing, linkage retainingBushing
358358Coupling, stepper motorCoupling
25 435 06-SKit, starter solenoidKit
52 050 02-SFilter, oilOil filter
223316Fuse, 10 A, 250 VService part / kit
292937Fuse, 20 A, 250 VService part / kit
AGS-10AGS 10 inline fuse, battery charger (located in the battery lead)Service part / kit
GM58703Assy, J1939/ModBus/Ethernet Converter (network bridge)Service part / kit
GM62347Kit, Resi Maint (17RES) (4/cs)Service part / kit
X-634-28BushingService part / kit
52 099 08-SSwitch, oil pressureSensor
GM28823Sensor, oil temperatureSensor
62 132 04-SSpark plugSpark plug

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

Aftermarket parts that fit this engine

2

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 980?

The Kohler CH 980 engine has an oil capacity of 2.8 liters.

What is the displacement of the Kohler CH 980?

The Kohler CH 980 has a displacement of 0.999 liters with 2 cylinders.

Which generators use the Kohler CH 980 engine?

The Kohler CH 980 powers 4 generator set(s), including Kohler 17RES, Kohler 18RES, Kohler 18TRES, SDMO RES 16 TEC.

How often should you change the oil in the Kohler CH 980?

The Kohler CH 980 oil change interval is every 150 hours.

What is a common problem with the Kohler CH 980 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler CH 980 is: 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..