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Kohler CH1006 Engine

Name: Kohler CH1006 Engine
Brand: Kohler

The Kohler CH1006 is a 1 L 2-cylinder natural engine rated at 3600 rpm, producing up to 26.1 kW. It powers generator sets from Kohler, including the 26RCA. It holds 1.9 L (0.5 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Kohler CH1006

0.999 L

Displacement

Cylinders

3600 rpm

Rated speed

26 kW

Gross power

On this pageSpecs Generator sets Maintenance FAQ Service intervals Torque & specs Fluids Fault codes Procedures Wiring

Engine specifications

Oil capacity	1.9 L
Displacement	0.999 L
Cylinders	2
Aspiration	Natural
Rated speed	3600 rpm
Gross power	26 kW

Generator sets powered by this engine

Kohler 26RCA

How to read your Kohler engine serial & model number →

Common problems

This generator has absorbed more than 25% reactive power (magnetic excitation current) for 20 seconds. LossOfField
Cause: Generator voltage on this generator is not calibrated correctly. Generator voltage on other generator is not calibrated correctly. Bus voltage on this generator is not calibrated correctly. Bus voltage on the other generator is not calibrated correctly.
This generator does not know if the metering is connected or the orientation of the connection. This means that the generators can’t share load accurately until this information is known. MeterUnknown
Cause: System commissioning and startup not yet complete. See the APM instructions.
The two generators that are intended to be paralleled have incompatible model numbers. CfgModelNum
Cause: Incorrect configuration of one of the generators. Different generator types. The paralleled generator sets must be the same kW model. (i.e. two 14 kW or two 20 kWor 26 kW models).
The system voltage of the two generators intended to be paralleled is not the same. CfgSysVolt
Cause: One of the two generators is incorrectly configured. Intermittent connections on RBUS network wiring.
The primary controller has lost communication with the secondary controller. (A secondary controller was detected, then communication was lost.) LossOfComm2
Cause: RBUS disconnected, secondary controller battery disconnected, updating firmware in secondary controller, or intermittent RBUS connections.
The power metering on this controller gives a signal that is not consistent with the system configuration. Reversing the power direction does not resolve the problem. ErraticSig
Cause: Bad wiring to the CT. Too much tension on wires from the CT to the controller.
The generator has verified that the metering is connected correctly and that the direction is consistent with expected power direction. MeteringOk
Cause: Status message indicates that the CT is connected to the generator correctly.
The generator has been attempting to synchronize for over 2 minutes without success. SyncFailure
Cause: Generator is hunting. Advanced speed control settings need adjustment. Load is changing frequently to disturb the online generator.
The generator has applied load (using the other generator) and has observed no current on the power sensing inputs. NoCurrent
Cause: The CT is not connected to the controller. The output leads from the generator do not go through the CT in the correct direction. See the APM instructions.
The bus is measured to be live when no generators are connected to it (both contactors open). BusLiveDead
Cause: Bus metering V9A and V9B connections to V9 of paralleling protection harness are connected incorrectly.
The bus is measured to be dead when one of the generators is supposed to be supplying voltage to the bus (closed contactor). BusDeadLive
Cause: Bus metering V9A and V9B connections to V9 of paralleling protection harness are connected incorrectly.
The Automatic Paralleling Module has stopped communicating on RBUS. (An APM was detected on the RBUS network but is no longer communicating). LossOfComAPM
Cause: APM is unplugged. Primary controller is powered down. Check the battery connections. See previous page for more information. Intermittent connections on RBUS network wiring.
Successful auto-discovery of APM connections. ContactorOk
Cause: Auto-discovery was activated by placing other generator in OFF and this generator in RUN.
Short circuits can cause bodily injury and/or equipment damage.
Fix: Disconnect the battery before generator set installation or maintenance. Remove all jewelry before servicing the equipment. Use tools with insulated handles. Remove the negative (–) lead first when disconnecting the battery. Reconnect the negative (–) lead last when reconnecting the battery. Never connect the negative (–) battery cable to the positive (+) connection terminal of the starter solenoid. Do not test the battery condition by shorting the terminals together.
Failure to Auto-Discover APM connections. ConCheckFail
Cause: Wires 9A and 9B crossed between the generators. Wires 9A or 9B not connected.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler CH1006.

Maintenance schedule

Item	Spec	Capacity	Part #	Interval
Oil filter	Cartridge type		—

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

Service intervals

Item	Action	Hours	Months	Notes
Oil level, 14 kW models	Check	8 hr		Every 8 hours of engine operation
Oil level, 20 kW models	Check	8 hr
Oil level, 26 kW models	Check	24 hr
Brushes and collector ring	Inspect	300 hr	12 mo	Authorized dealer only; Yearly or 300 hours
Wire-cable insulation condition	Inspect	500 hr	36 mo	3 years or 500 hours
Air ducts, louvers	Clean		12 mo	Yearly
Battery and rack corrosion	Clean		12 mo	Yearly
Battery charger operation, charge rate	Check		1 mo	Monthly
Battery electrolyte level and specific gravity	Check		12 mo	Not necessary for maintenance-free batteries; Yearly
Battery terminals and boots	Clean		12 mo	Yearly
Control and power wiring connections	Check		12 mo	Tighten; Yearly
Exhaust insulation, fire hazards	Inspect		12 mo	Yearly
Flexible fuel lines and connections	Inspect		3 mo	Replace as necessary; Quarterly
Fuel piping	Inspect		12 mo	Yearly
Generator, visible wear or damage	Inspect		3 mo	Quarterly
Interior of sound enclosure	Clean		3 mo	Quarterly
Remote control system, if equipped	Test		1 mo	Monthly
Winding insulation resistance readings (Megger)	Test		36 mo	Authorized dealer only, SCR assembly/rectifier and load leads disconnected; 3 years
Wire abrasions where subject to motion	Check		6 mo	6 months
Wiring visible wear or damage	Inspect		3 mo	Quarterly

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

Type	Item	Value	Unit
Gap	Spark plug gap	0.76	mm (0.030 in.)
Other	Battery wrap length	1067 (42)	mm (in.)
Other	Battery wrap length	864 (34)	mm (in.)
Other	Heater wrap rating	50	Watts
Other	Heater wrap rating	65	Watts
Other	Plug cord length	75 (3)	mm (in.)
Other	Power cord length	1677 (66)	mm (in.)
Other	Power cord length	1830 (72)	mm (in.)
Other	Power cord length	483 (19)	mm (in.)
Speed	Engine speed high shutdown	115	% of normal running speed for >0.3 sec
Speed	Engine speed low shutdown	85	% of normal running speed for >3 sec
Speed	Frequency regulation steady state	0.5%	%
Temperature	Thermostat off temperature	27	C (80 F)
Temperature	Thermostat on temperature	16	C (60 F)
Torque	Spark plug	24.4-29.8	Nm (18-22 ft. lb.)
Voltage	Battery charger output	13.4 ±2%	VDC, max 2.5 A
Voltage	Voltage regulation (no-load to full-load)	1.0%	RMS

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

Fluid	Grade	Standard	Capacity	Notes
Engine oil		Full Pressure system	1.9 L	With filter. Integral oil cooler.
Engine oil	10W-50 extended-life synthetic		1.9 L (qt.)	Premium oil option, 26 kW models, requires fewer oil changes
Engine oil	5W-30 or 10W-30 API Service Class SG, SH, or SJ synthetic	API SG/SH/SJ	1.8 L (qt.)	14 kW models
Engine oil	Synthetic, API Service Class SG or higher	API SG or higher		Check oil level at or near, not over, full mark on dipstick before operation

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

Code	Name	Meaning	Severity	Action
AC Sens Loss	AC Sens Loss	AC sensing lost in Auto mode; generator output AC sensing lost. Detection begins 10 seconds after crank disconnect. Warning after 1 sec if no output detected after crank disconnect; Shutdown after 3 sec if voltage was present and then lost.	Warning	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
ATS ComError	ATS Communication Error	ATS communication error. Warning displayed if ATS interface connection is lost.	Warning	Check communication wiring between transfer switch interface board and generator set.
ATS PhaseRot	ATS Phase Rotation	ATS phase rotation mismatch. Transfer switch phase rotation does not match; ATS will not transfer.	Warning	Correct the ATS connection. Refer to the ATS Installation manual, wiring diagrams, and labels on the transfer switch.
Accy PwrOver Warning	Accessory Power Overload Warning	An over current fault (short circuit) on the accessory controller power output.	Warning	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Advanced Diagnostic	Advanced Diagnostic	Shutdown during the reduced speed portion of an exercise. Event history shows Advanced Diagnostic Active. Engine restarts, runs at full speed for 2 minutes, and stops. Controller returns to AUTO mode.	Shutdown	If the generator set does not restart and return to AUTO, check for other faults that prevent generator set operation.
Aux Input	Auxiliary Input	An optional customer-connected input is closed (digital input from optional PIM).	Shutdown	Check customer-supplied equipment.
Batt Chg Flt	Battery Charger Fault	Input to PIM from an external battery charger (not the built-in battery charger).	Warning	Check external battery charger.
Battery CrLo Warning	Low Cranking Battery Voltage Warning	Engine starting battery voltage falls below 11 VDC for more than 10 seconds. Inhibited during crank cycle. Clears when battery voltage returns to acceptable level.	Warning	Check the battery rating and condition. Check the battery charger operation. Charge or replace the battery.
Battery Voltage High	Battery Voltage High	Engine starting battery voltage rises above 16 VDC for more than 10 seconds. Inhibited during crank cycle. Clears when voltage returns to acceptable level.	Warning	Check the battery rating and condition. Check the battery charger operation.
Battery Voltage Low	Battery Voltage Low	Engine starting battery voltage falls below 12.5 VDC for more than 90 seconds when engine not running. Not operative during crank cycle. Clears when voltage returns to acceptable level.	Warning	Check the battery rating and condition. Check the battery charger operation. Charge or replace the battery.
Engine Speed High	Engine Speed High	Engine speed exceeds 115% of the normal running speed for more than 0.3 seconds.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Engine Speed Low	Engine Speed Low	Engine speed drops below 85% of the normal running speed for more than 3 seconds.	Shutdown	Reduce the load. Check enclosure thermostat and reset if tripped. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Exer Not Sch	Exercise Not Scheduled	No exercise is scheduled on the controller.	Warning	See the Setting the Exerciser section for instructions to set the exerciser.
Frequency High	Frequency High	Governed frequency exceeds 110% of the system's frequency setpoint for more than 10 seconds. Active 10 seconds after engine start.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Frequency Low	Frequency Low	Governed frequency falls below 90% of the system frequency setting for more than 10 seconds, or 1 Hz below setting for more than 60 seconds. Active 10 seconds after engine start.	Shutdown	Reduce the load and restart the generator set. Check enclosure thermostat and reset if tripped. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Lo Crank Vlt	Low Cranking Voltage	Battery voltage dropped below 3.5 VDC during engine cranking.	Warning	Charge or replace the battery.
Locked Rotor	Locked Rotor	No engine rotation is sensed during cranking. Shuts down 3 seconds after fault is detected.	Shutdown	Check the battery. Check for loose connections. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Low Oil Level or Oil Pressure	Low Oil Level or Oil Pressure	Oil level switch on the 26 kW indicates low oil level. LOP switch indicates low oil pressure for more than 5 seconds. Active 30 seconds after crank disconnect. Does not protect against low oil level.	Shutdown	Check for leaks in the lubrication system. Check the oil level and add oil if low. Check the oil level or oil pressure switch and wiring. If fault persists, do not run the generator set; contact an authorized dealer.
MainPwrOverL	Main Power Overload	Main power overload; an over current fault on the controller output (short circuit).	Shutdown	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Not in Auto	Not in Auto	The generator set is not in Automatic (standby) mode. Remote start and stop commands from a transfer switch or remote switch will be ignored.	Warning	Press AUTO to place the generator set in Automatic mode, when appropriate.
Over Crank	Over Crank	Three unsuccessful starting attempts.	Shutdown	Check the fuel supply, spark plug, and battery. Check for loose connections. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Spd Sens Flt	Speed Sensor Fault	Engine speed sensor has failed or engine stalled.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Volts L1-L2 High	Generator Voltage High	Output voltage exceeds 120% of the system nominal voltage for more than 2 seconds.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Volts L1-L2 Low	Generator Voltage Low	Output voltage falls below 80% of the nominal system voltage for more than 10 seconds.	Shutdown	Reduce the load and restart the generator set. Check enclosure thermostat and reset if tripped. Contact an authorized dealer for service.

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

Procedures

Resetting the Controller After a Fault Shutdown diagnostic

⚠ Always identify and correct cause of fault before resetting

Press Select to go to Overview menu while fault message is displayed
Press Select again to show active fault message
Press Select; 'Confirm Clear Fault: NO' displayed
Press UP arrow; 'Confirm Clear Fault: YES' displayed
Press Select to clear fault
Press Select to return to overview menu; controller changes to OFF mode
Press AUTO to place generator set in automatic mode

Access the Air Intake Area installation

Unlock and raise the enclosure roof.
Pull the air intake panel up and off its four bushings.
Remove the cover panel over the terminal block to make electrical connections.
After connections complete and battery installed, reinstall panels.

Battery Installation Procedure installation

⚠ Battery acid can cause severe injury or death

⚠ Explosion hazard from battery gases

Ensure starting battery is fully charged before placing in service.
Clean battery posts and/or adapters if necessary.
Install battery post adapters, if needed.
Place battery in the housing.
Connect positive (+) lead to engine starting battery.
Connect negative (-) lead to engine starting battery.

Fuel Conversion from NG to LPG, 14RCA/L (Original Fuel System) installation

⚠ Disconnect battery before working on generator set

⚠ Explosive fuel vapors can cause severe injury or death

Tools: straight-blade screwdriver, gas leak detector

Press OFF button on generator set controller.
Disconnect utility power to the generator.
Disconnect engine starting battery, negative lead first.
Turn off and disconnect the fuel supply.
Remove hose clamp and fuel hose from hose fitting.
Use straight-blade screwdriver to remove NG orifice from hose fitting.
Insert LPG orifice into hose fitting and tighten until snug.
Slide hose onto hose fitting and secure with clamp.
Disconnect ignition timing leads 65 and N3 for LPG.
Connect and turn on the new fuel supply.
Reconnect battery leads, negative lead last.
Reconnect utility power to the generator.
Start generator by pressing RUN button.
Check for leaks using a gas leak detector.
Run generator and check operation; press OFF when done.

Fuel Selection, Revised Fuel System, 14/20/26RCA/L installation

⚠ Explosive fuel vapors can cause severe injury or death

Tools: gas leak detector

Press OFF button on generator set controller.
Disconnect utility power to the generator set.
Disconnect engine starting battery, negative lead first.
Turn off the fuel supply.
For NG, turn selection knob clockwise to UP arrow; for LPG, turn counterclockwise about 1/4 turn.
For NG, connect ignition timing lead 65 to N3; for LPG, disconnect lead 65 from N3.
Connect and turn on fuel supply, ensuring it matches the fuel setting.
Reconnect battery leads, negative lead last.
Reconnect utility power to the generator.
Change fuel type setting on RDC2 controller in Genset System menu.
Start generator by pressing RUN button.
Check for leaks using a gas leak detector.
Run generator and check operation; press OFF when done.

Air Cleaner Service, 14 kW Models maintenance

⚠ Do not operate generator set with air cleaner removed

Press OFF on controller
Disconnect utility power
Disconnect battery negative lead first
Loosen cover retaining knob and remove cover
Remove element cover nut, element cover, and paper element
Replace element if dirty, bent, or damaged (do not wash or use pressurized air)
Check air cleaner base and element cover, replace damaged components
Reinstall element, cover, nut, and cover; secure with knob
Reconnect utility power and battery negative last

Air Cleaner Service, 20/26 kW Models maintenance

⚠ Do not operate generator set with air cleaner removed

Loosen two cover retaining knobs and remove cover
Remove paper element
Replace if dirty, bent, or damaged (do not wash or use pressurized air)
Check air cleaner base, secure and undamaged
Reinstall element flat and properly seated
Install cover and secure with two knobs

Oil Change Procedure maintenance

⚠ Disconnect battery cables before working on generator set, negative lead first

⚠ Do not work on generator set until it cools

Tools: oil filter wrench

Press OFF on controller
Disconnect utility power
Disconnect battery negative lead first
Remove end panels to access oil drain valve/hose
Clean area around dipstick and oil fill cap
Remove drain hose cap and lower into container
Open oil drain valve
Remove dipstick and fill cap, drain completely
Close drain valve, replace hose cap and clip, replace dipstick
Loosen and remove old oil filter, allow to drain (20/26 kW)
Clean gasket sealing surface, oil new filter seal, install new filter
Fill with oil to F mark on dipstick
Reconnect battery negative last, reconnect utility power
Press RUN, run briefly, recheck oil level, check for leaks
Reset the maintenance timer on the controller

Resetting the Maintenance Timer maintenance

From Overview menu, step down to Genset Run Time menu
Press Select, step down to Next Maintenance screen
Press Select
Press Up arrow so 'Reset Maint Timer? Yes' is displayed
Press Select; new interval and date displayed after ~2 minutes

Spark Plug Service maintenance

⚠ Disconnect battery cables before working on generator set

Tools: wire feeler gauge, spark plug socket/torque wrench

Clean area around spark plug base
Remove spark plug and check condition, replace if worn
Check gap with wire feeler gauge, adjust by bending ground electrode
Reinstall spark plug, torque to 24.4-29.8 Nm (18-22 ft. lb.)

Storage Procedure maintenance

⚠ Perform battery storage last

Operate generator set to operating temperature (~15 min), then stop
Drain warm engine oil, refill crankcase, run briefly to distribute, stop
Start generator set, shut off gas supply, run until engine stops, press OFF
Remove spark plugs, pour one tablespoon of oil into each hole, install plugs, ground leads (do not connect), crank 2-3 revolutions
Clean exterior, seal openings with nonabsorbent tape, mask electrical contacts, oil unpainted metal surfaces
Press OFF, disconnect battery negative first, clean battery, store in warm dry location, connect to float/equalize or trickle charger monthly

Resetting the Thermostat repair

⚠ Do not work on the generator set until it cools

Disconnect utility power by opening the building distribution panel breaker
Open enclosure roof and secure with roof stay
Remove air intake panel
Press button on thermostat to reset
Replace air intake panel
Reconnect utility power
Reset fault on controller

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

Connection	Leads	Notes
12-volt engine electrical system, single starter motor, negative ground	Battery negative to ground terminal on or near starter motor; battery positive to positive terminal on starter solenoid	All generator set models use a negative ground with a 12-volt engine electrical system
Engine start connection for non-RXT transfer switch or remote start/stop switch	Terminals 3 and 4 on generator set terminal block	Route engine start leads through separate conduit from AC power and load leads
RXT transfer switch to generator set terminal block A, B, PWR, COM	P10-1 through P10-4 (transfer switch) to A, B, PWR, COM (generator set)	Terminal block connections 3 and 4 not used with Model RXT ATS

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

Common questions

What is the oil capacity of the Kohler CH1006?

The Kohler CH1006 engine has an oil capacity of 1.9 liters.

What is the displacement of the Kohler CH1006?

The Kohler CH1006 has a displacement of 0.999 liters with 2 cylinders.

Which generators use the Kohler CH1006 engine?

The Kohler CH1006 powers 1 generator set(s), including Kohler 26RCA.

What is a common problem with the Kohler CH1006 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler CH1006 is: This generator has absorbed more than 25% reactive power (magnetic excitation current) for 20 seconds.. Cause: Generator voltage on this generator is not calibrated correctly. Generator voltage on other generator is not calibrated correctly. Bus voltage on this generator is not calibrated correctly. Bus voltage on the other generator is not calibrated correctly..