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Kohler CH980 4 Cycle Engine

The Kohler CH980 4 Cycle is a 1 L engine rated at 3600 rpm. It powers generator sets from Kohler, including the 18RES. It holds 2.8 L (0.7 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Kohler CH980 4 Cycle

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

0.999 L

Displacement

3600 rpm

Rated speed

2.8 L

Oil capacity

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

Engine specifications

Oil capacity	2.8 L
Displacement	0.999 L
Rated speed	3600 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

Kohler 18RES

How to read your Kohler engine serial & model number →

Common problems

Generator set stops suddenly.
Cause: Low oil pressure shutdown
Fix: Check the oil level.
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 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.
Controller LED display is off
Cause: No power to the controller: The generator set has not run for 48 hours or longer and the controller has powered down.
Fix: Controller display will automatically activate when a remote start command is received or the generator set master switch is moved to the RUN position. See Section 2.3.
The generator set does not crank
Cause: Fault shutdown
Fix: Check for a fault code on the controller display. See Section 2.7.
No AC output.
Cause: AC circuit breaker in the OFF position
Fix: Place the circuit breaker in the ON position.
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.
No AC output
Cause: AC circuit breaker in the OFF position
Fix: Place the circuit breaker in the ON position.
Green LED stays on when the battery is known to be low
Cause: Open DC output fuse.
Fix: Replace AGS-10 fuse.
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.
Upgradeable application software Undervoltage
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.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler CH980 4 Cycle.

Maintenance schedule

Item	Spec	Capacity	Part #	Interval
Oil filter	Cartridge		—
Oil		2.8 L	—	100 hr

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	Check	8 hr		8 hours or before use; 8.5/12 kW models
Air cleaner and precleaner (8.5/12RES)	Replace	100 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 100 hours; replace as necessary
Air cleaner and precleaner service	Clean	100 hr		Yearly or 100 hours; 8.5/12 kW models; service more often in dusty/dirty conditions
Air cleaner and precleaner service	Replace	100 hr		12 kW models; Yearly or 100 hours; replace as necessary
Air cleaner and precleaner service (8.5/12 kW)	Replace	100 hr		Yearly or 100 hours; service more frequently under dusty/dirty conditions
Engine oil	Change	150 hr	12 mo	8.5/12RES: yearly or 100 hours
Oil cooler	Clean	100 hr		Yearly or 100 hours; 17/18 kW models
Oil cooler	Inspect	100 hr		Yearly or 100 hours (17/18 kW models)
Oil cooler (17/18RES)	Clean	100 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 100 hours; inspect and clean
Air cleaner service	Clean	150 hr		Yearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Air cleaner service (17/18 kW)	Replace	150 hr		Yearly or 150/300 hours
Change oil	Change	150 hr		Yearly or 150 hours (17/18 kW models)
Engine oil (17/18RES)	Change	150 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 150 hours
Oil	Change	150 hr		Yearly or 150 hours; 17/18 kW models
Oil filter (17/18RES)	Replace	150 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 150 hours
Spark plugs	Clean	150 hr		Yearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Spark plugs (17/18 kW)	Replace	150 hr		Yearly or 150/300 hours
Oil filter	Replace	200 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 200 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Replace filter (oil filter)	Replace	200 hr		Yearly or 200 hours (8.5/12 kW models)
Air cleaner service	Change	300 hr		Yearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Air cleaner service	Replace	300 hr		18 kW models; 150/300 hours
Spark plugs	Check	300 hr		Yearly or 300 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Spark plugs	Replace	300 hr		Yearly or hours shown; 17/18 kW models
Spark plugs (8.5/12 kW)	Replace	300 hr		Yearly or 300 hours
Spark plugs (8.5/12RES)	Check	300 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 300 hours
Crankcase breather hose	Check	500 hr	12 mo	Yearly or 500 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Replace stepper motor coupling and bushing	Replace	500 hr		500 hours; authorized distributor/dealer only
Stepper motor coupling and bushing	Replace	500 hr		Authorized distributor/dealer only; 8.5/12 kW models
Wire-cable insulation condition	Inspect	500 hr	36 mo	3 years or 500 hours
Wire-cable insulation condition	Test	500 hr		3 Years or 500 hours; 8.5/12 kW models
Air ducts, louvers	Clean		12 mo	Yearly
Battery and rack	Clean		12 mo	Yearly; remove corrosion, clean and dry
Battery charger operation, charge rate	Check		1 mo	Monthly
Battery electrolyte level and specific gravity	Check		12 mo	Yearly; not necessary for maintenance-free batteries
Battery terminals	Clean		12 mo	Yearly; clean and tighten
Brushes and collector ring	Inspect		12 mo	Yearly; authorized distributor/dealer only
Control and power wiring connections	Other		12 mo	Yearly; tighten
Exhaust insulation, fire hazards	Inspect		12 mo	Yearly
Flexible fuel lines and connections	Inspect		3 mo	Quarterly; replace as necessary
Fuel piping	Inspect		12 mo	Yearly

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	Condition
Gap	Spark Plug Gap 12/17/18RES	0.76	mm (0.030 in.)
Gap	Spark Plug Gap 8.5kW	0.51	mm (0.020 in.)
Gap	Spark plug gap	0.51	mm
Gap	Spark plug gap	0.76	mm (0.030 in.)
Other	Battery minimum cold cranking amps	525	CCA	at 0F
Other	Combustion air requirement (60 Hz)	1.1 (39.2)	m3/min. (cfm)	60 Hz
Other	Combustion air requirement (60 Hz)	1.62 (57.3)	m3/min. (cfm)	60 Hz
Other	Cooling air requirement (60 Hz)	26.9 (950)	m3/min. (cfm)	60 Hz
Other	Cooling air requirement (60 Hz)	28.0 (989)	m3/min. (cfm)	60 Hz
Other	Engine oil capacity	1.9	L (2.0 qt.)
Other	Engine oil capacity	2.8	L (3.0 qt.) approximately
Other	Exhaust flow at rated kW	3.8 (135)	m3/min (cfm)	at rated kW
Other	Exhaust flow at rated kW	5.3 (187)	m3/min (cfm)	at rated kW
Other	Fuel flow rate, LP vapor	203000	Btu/hr.
Other	Fuel flow rate, LP vapor	280000	Btu/hr.
Other	Fuel flow rate, natural gas	193000	Btu/hr.
Other	Fuel flow rate, natural gas	242000	Btu/hr.
Other	Fuel system leak test pressure	6-8 ounces per square inch (10-14 inches water column)	oz/in²	LPG vapor or natural gas system
Other	Nominal fuel rating, LP vapor	2500	Btu/ft3
Other	Nominal fuel rating, natural gas	1000	Btu/ft3
Other	Overfrequency shutdown threshold	110	% of system frequency setpoint	more than 5 seconds, active 10s after start
Other	Total inlet air requirement (60 Hz)	28.0 (990)	m3/min. (cfm)	60 Hz
Other	Total inlet air requirement (60 Hz)	29.6 (1045)	m3/min. (cfm)	60 Hz
Other	Underfrequency shutdown threshold	54	Hz	more than 5 seconds (or below 56.5 Hz for more than 60 seconds)
Pressure	Fuel supply pressure, LP vapor	1.7--2.7 (7-11)	kPa (in. H2O)
Pressure	Fuel supply pressure, natural gas	1.3--2.7 (5-11)	kPa (in. H2O)
Pressure	Fuel supply pressure, natural gas	1.7--2.7 (7-11)	kPa (in. H2O)
Pressure	Gas fuel system leak test pressure	6--8	ounces per square inch (10--14 inches water column)	fuel system test pressurized; use soap and water solution without ammonia or chlorine
Pressure	Gas fuel system leak test pressure	6--8 (10--14)	ounces per square inch (inches water column)	fuel system test pressurized
Pressure	LP/natural gas fuel system leak test	6--8 ounces per square inch (10--14 inches water column)		soap and water solution test pressure
Pressure	Low oil pressure shutdown	24.1 ±13.8	kPa (3.5 psi ±1.5 psi)
Speed	Crank cycle	15	seconds crank and 15 seconds off, 3 attempts	starting
Speed	Crank cycle	15 seconds crank and 15 seconds off, 3 attempts	seconds
Speed	Cut-in frequency	47.5	Hz	50 Hz units
Speed	Cut-in frequency	57.5	Hz	60 Hz units
Speed	Overfrequency shutdown threshold	110% of system frequency setpoint for more than 5 seconds	%	active 10 seconds after engine start
Speed	Overspeed shutdown threshold	110	% of normal running speed	more than 0.3 seconds
Speed	Overspeed shutdown threshold	110% of normal running speed for more than 0.3 seconds	%
Speed	Rated engine speed	3000	rpm	50 Hz operation
Speed	Rated engine speed	3600	rpm	60 Hz operation
Speed	Underfrequency shutdown threshold	below 54 Hz for more than 5 seconds; below 56.5 Hz for more than 60 seconds	Hz	active 10 seconds after engine start
Temperature	Battery heater thermostat ON / OFF	16-18 °C (60-65 °F) on; 27 °C (80 °F) off	°C
Temperature	Carburetor heater thermostat OFF	16 ± 3	°C	60 ± 5 °F
Temperature	Carburetor heater thermostat ON	4 ± 3	°C	40 ± 5 °F
Temperature	Carburetor heater thermostat ON	4 ± 4	C (40 ± 7F)
Temperature	Exhaust gas temperature exiting the enclosure at rated load	216 (420)	C (F)	at rated kW
Temperature	Thermostat OFF	16 ± 3	°C	Thermostat OFF (60 ± 5°F)
Temperature	Thermostat ON	4 ± 4	°C	Thermostat ON (40 ± 7°F)
Torque	Spark Plug Torque	24.4-29.8	Nm (18-22 ft. lb.)
Torque	Spark plug	18-22	ft. lb.
Torque	Spark plug	24.4--29.8	Nm (18--22 ft. lb.)
Torque	Spark plug	24.4-29.8	Nm
Voltage	Battery charger charging voltages (red/green LED)	11.8-14.0 V (bulk 6 A); 14.0-14.5 V (absorption 1.5-5 A); 13.0-13.6 V (float 0.1-1.5 A)	VDC	6-amp RES charger
Voltage	Battery charger output	6	amps
Voltage	Battery charger output (RES, 6 Amp)	12	VDC @ 6 Amps	INPUT 115 VAC 50/60Hz @ 1.6A
Voltage	Battery charger output (TRES, 2.5 Amp)	13.2	VDC	verify with battery disconnected
Voltage	Battery charger output (green LED on, FLOAT/MAINTENANCE stage)	13.0--13.6	V	0.1--1.5 amps
Voltage	Battery charger output (red LED on, BULK stage)	11.8--14.0	V	6 amps; battery charger on
Voltage	Battery charger output (red and green LEDs on, ABSORPTION stage)	14.0--14.5	V	1.5--5.0 amps
Voltage	Battery charger output, 6-amp RES	12	VDC	@ 6 Amps; input 115 VAC 50/60Hz @ 1.6A; max battery 180 Amp Hr.

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	Ambient	Capacity	Notes
Engine oil	5W-30	API Service Class SG, SH, or SJ synthetic		2.8 L	18 kW models; approximately 2.8 L (3.0 qt.)
Engine oil	Synthetic	API Service Class SG or higher			Use synthetic oil, API Service Class SG or higher
Engine oil	Synthetic oil	API Service Class SG or higher			Maintain oil level at or near, not over, the full mark on the dipstick. See TP-6517 Operation Manual for additional information.
Engine oil	10W-30; 5W-20, 5W-30	API Service Class SG, SH, or SJ synthetic	-30°C to 40°C	1.9 L	12 kW models; select viscosity based on air temperature expected before next oil change
Fuel	LP vapor				Nominal fuel rating 93 MJ/m3 (2500 Btu/ft.3). Fuel supply inlet 1/2 NPT.
Fuel	LP vapor, 93 MJ/m3 (2500 Btu/ft3)				Nominal fuel rating
Fuel	LPG				Fuel 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
Fuel	Natural Gas				Fuel 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
Fuel	Natural gas				Nominal fuel rating 37 MJ/m3 (1000 Btu/ft.3). Fuel supply inlet 1/2 NPT.
Fuel	Natural gas or propane (LP) vapor	Field-convertible multi-fuel; CARB emission certified			Clean-burning natural gas or propane (LP) vapor; air-cooled engine, no liquid coolant
Fuel	Natural gas, 37 MJ/m3 (1000 Btu/ft3)				Nominal fuel rating
Other	Bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) and water solution				Battery acid cleanup: 500 g (1 lb.) bicarbonate of soda to 4 L (1 gal.) water; also used to clean battery and cables
Other	Petroleum jelly, silicone grease, or other nonconductive grease				Coat 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

Code	Name	Meaning	Severity	Action
AF	Auxiliary fault input shutdown	Shutdown initiated by pushing the emergency stop switch (TRES models only). Not used on RES models.	Shutdown	Check the position of the emergency stop button (TRES models only).
CC	Crank cycle
HB	High battery voltage warning	Displayed if engine starting battery voltage rises above 16 VDC for more than 30 seconds when engine is running.	Warning	Check the battery rating and condition; check battery charger operation.
HE	High engine temperature shutdown	Shutdown occurs if the engine coolant temperature exceeds the maximum for more than 5 seconds. Active after engine reaches crank disconnect speed.	Shutdown	Check for blocked air inlets and exhaust outlets.
LB	Low battery voltage warning	Displayed if engine starting battery voltage falls below 11 VDC for more than 30 seconds when engine is not running.	Warning	Check the battery rating and condition; check battery charger operation; charge or replace battery.
LCL	Low coolant level	FMI 1, SPN 0x006F
LO P	Low oil pressure shutdown	Shutdown 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.	Shutdown	Check for leaks in the lubrication system. Check the oil level and add oil if the level is low.
LOC	Loss of coolant	FMI 1, SPN 0x006F
LOP	Low oil pressure shutdown	Shutdown occurs if a low oil pressure condition exists for more than 5 seconds. Active 30 seconds after crank disconnect speed.	Shutdown	Check for leaks in lubrication system; check oil level and add oil if low.
OC	Overcrank shutdown	Shutdown after 3 unsuccessful starting attempts (15s crank, 15s rest each). Also on locked rotor if no engine rotation sensed during cranking.	Shutdown	Check fuel supply, spark plug, battery, loose connections. Contact dealer if problem continues.
OF	Overfrequency shutdown	Shutdown occurs when governed frequency exceeds 110% of system frequency setpoint for more than 5 seconds. Active 10 seconds after engine start.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
OS	Overspeed shutdown	Shutdown occurs if engine speed exceeds 110% of normal running speed for more than 0.3 seconds.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
OU	Overvoltage shutdown	Shutdown occurs if voltage exceeds 120% of system nominal voltage for more than 2 seconds.	Shutdown	Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service if problem continues.
UF	Underfrequency shutdown	Shutdown 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.	Shutdown	Reduce load and restart; contact dealer if problem continues.
UU	Undervoltage shutdown	Shutdown occurs if voltage falls below 80% of nominal system voltage for more than 10 seconds.	Shutdown	Reduce 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

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.

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

Frequency Adjustment Procedure adjustment

Tools: frequency meter

Attach a frequency meter to the AC output leads or an outlet on the load side of the generator set.
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)

Place the generator set master switch in the OFF position.
Disconnect the power to the battery charger.
Disconnect the generator set engine starting battery, negative (--) lead first.
Turn off the fuel supply.
Remove the hose clamp and fuel hose from the hose fitting.
Place the orifice into the hose fitting.
Slide the hose onto the hose fitting and secure it with the clamp.
Disconnect the digital spark-advance module (DSAI) leads for LP (connect the leads for natural gas).
Connect and turn on the new fuel supply.
Check that the generator set master switch is in the OFF position.
Reconnect the generator set engine starting battery leads, negative (--) lead last.
Reconnect power to the battery charger.
Start the generator set by moving the generator set master switch to the RUN position.
Check for leaks using a gas leak detector.
Move the generator set master switch to the OFF/RESET position to shut down the generator set.

Voltage Adjustment Procedure adjustment

Tools: digital multimeter

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.
Start the generator set by moving the master switch to RUN.
Use the ADC controller to adjust the voltage (parameter 1P) until output voltage reaches the desired value.
Adjust the voltage stability (gain, parameter 2P) to minimize light flicker.
Readjust the voltage if necessary.
Set the multimeter to measure frequency.
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).
Adjust the volts/Hz (parameter 3P) until voltage begins to drop as load is applied at cut-in frequency.
Reset engine speed to operating frequency (50 or 60 Hz) via parameter 4P.
Readjust voltage stability (parameter 2P) if necessary.
Readjust voltage (parameter 1P) if necessary.
Save settings.
Stop the generator set.

Network Bridge Diagnostics diagnostic

Check the network LEDs on the RJ45 connector for Ethernet network communication.
Check the STAT LED; if not lit, check connections and the engine starting battery.
Check the TX and RX LEDs for CAN data transmission and reception.
If neither the TX nor the RX LED flashes, check bridge power, connections, and settings.
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.

Move the generator set master switch to OFF/RESET.
Disconnect the generator set from the load using the line circuit breaker or ATS.
Identify and correct the cause of the fault shutdown.
Start the generator set by moving the master switch to RUN; test operate to verify the cause is corrected.
Move the master switch to OFF/RESET.
Reconnect the generator set to the load using the line circuit breaker or ATS.
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

Remove the junction box panel to gain access to the inside of the junction box.
Drill two 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) mounting holes in the top of the junction box.
Install network bridge GM58703 inside the junction box using two screws M7985A-0410-20, washers M125A-04-80, and nuts M934-04-50.
Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.

15/30RESA and 15/30REYG Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP4) installation

Remove the junction box panel to gain access to the inside of the junction box.
Drill two 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) mounting holes in the top of the junction box.
Install network bridge GM58703 inside the junction box using two screws M7985A-0410-20, washers M125A-04-80, and nuts M934-04-50.
Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.

17/18RES Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP1) installation

Open the enclosure and remove the front panel to access the controller junction box. Cover internal components.
Drill a hole for the customer-supplied Ethernet cable at the location shown.
Drill a 38.1 mm (1.5 in.) hole in the bottom of the junction box. Insert bushing X-634-28.
Route connector P21 of Y-harness GM62626 through this opening.
Drill two 4.8 mm (3/16 in.) mounting holes in the front panel at the locations shown.
Use two screws M7985A-04010-20, washers X-6278-8, and nuts M934-04-50 to mount network bridge GM58703.
Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.

8.5/12RES Bridge Installation (GM62630-KP3) installation

Remove existing junction box panel GM60625. Save the hardware and seal for reuse.
Mount network bridge GM58703 onto the new panel using two screws X-51-15, washers M125A-04-80, and nuts M934-04-50.
Install new J-box panel GM66795 as shown. Use the existing hardware and seal X-6422-31.
Affix decal GM54820 in the location shown.
Proceed to Section 6, Network Bridge Connection.

Assign Bridge IP Address installation

Tools: DeviceInstaller software

Launch DeviceInstaller from the Windows Start button.
In the DeviceInstaller menu, click View then Details.
Click the Search button on the toolbar.
Find the device whose hardware address matches the MAC address printed on the network bridge label.
Click the Assign IP button in the toolbar.
If no IP address is assigned, enter the bridge's hardware (MAC) address and click Next.
Select Assign a Specific IP Address and click Next.
Type the bridge IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway in dotted decimal notation. Click Next.
Click the Assign button to assign the IP settings.
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.

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

Voltage	Phase	Connection	Leads	Notes
		DSAI (Digital Spark Advance) leads	65 and N5	Connect for natural gas; disconnect for LP
		Field-connection terminal block — L1 and L2	Leads from transfer switch emergency source lugs to L1 and L2	See decal near the terminal block for connections
		Remote start	Engine start leads from terminals 3 and 4	Route engine start leads through separate conduit from AC power and load leads
	single phase	Field-connection terminal block	L1, 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 VAC		Utility Power terminals on field-connection terminal block		Utility 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

Part #	Description	Category
62 083 01-S	Element, air filter	Air filter
RSP-FT-03-US-01	Pack first: complete service kit comprising air filter, air pre filter, spark plugs and oil filter.	Air filter
RSP-FT-05-US-01	Pack first: complete service kit comprising air filter, air pre filter, spark plugs and oil filter.	Air filter
25 158 08-S	Bushing, linkage retaining	Bushing
358358	Coupling, stepper motor	Coupling
25 435 06-S	Kit, starter solenoid	Kit
52 050 02-S	Filter, oil	Oil filter
223316	Fuse, 10 A, 250 V	Service part / kit
292937	Fuse, 20 A, 250 V	Service part / kit
AGS-10	AGS 10 inline fuse, battery charger (located in the battery lead)	Service part / kit
GM58703	Assy, J1939/ModBus/Ethernet Converter (network bridge)	Service part / kit
GM62347	Kit, Resi Maint (17RES) (4/cs)	Service part / kit
X-634-28	Bushing	Service part / kit
52 099 08-S	Switch, oil pressure	Sensor
GM28823	Sensor, oil temperature	Sensor
62 132 04-S	Spark plug	Spark plug

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 CH980 4 Cycle?

The Kohler CH980 4 Cycle engine has an oil capacity of 2.8 liters.

What is the displacement of the Kohler CH980 4 Cycle?

The Kohler CH980 4 Cycle has a displacement of 0.999 liters.

Which generators use the Kohler CH980 4 Cycle engine?

The Kohler CH980 4 Cycle powers 1 generator set(s), including Kohler 18RES.

How often should you change the oil in the Kohler CH980 4 Cycle?

The Kohler CH980 4 Cycle oil change interval is every 100 hours.

What is a common problem with the Kohler CH980 4 Cycle engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler CH980 4 Cycle is: Generator set stops suddenly.. Cause: Low oil pressure shutdown. Fix: Check the oil level..