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Kohler L600 Engine

Name: Kohler L600 Engine
Brand: Kohler

The Kohler L600 is a 0.97 L engine. It powers generator sets from Kohler, including the ES799.

Also known as: KOHLER L600, L600

0.9728315 L

Displacement

On this pageSpecs Generator sets Maintenance FAQ

Engine specifications

Displacement	0.9728315 L

Generator sets powered by this engine

Kohler ES799

How to read your Kohler engine serial & model number →

Common problems

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

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Kohler L600.

Maintenance schedule

Item	Spec	Capacity	Part #	Interval
Air filter	Dry type: Replace after 100-200 hours, Oil bath type: Clean every 50 hours (or 3 months), Marine models: Service more frequently under dusty or dirty conditions		—	50 hr
Fuel filter			—	200 hr
Oil filter	API Service classification SC, SAE 30 weight for temperatures above 30° F, SAE 10 weight for temperatures below 30° F		—	50 hr
Battery	Check electrolyte level in battery every 50 hours (or 3 months)		—	150 hr
Belt	Check fan belt and tension every 50 hours (or 6 months)		—	300 hr
Coolant			—
Coolant filter			—
Oil	SAE 30 weight for temperatures above 30° F, SAE 10 weight for temperatures below 30° F	4.0 Quarts (L600)	—	50 hr
Spark plug	Check spark plugs every 200 hours, Tighten torque to 22 ft. lbs.		—	200 hr

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

Common questions

What is the displacement of the Kohler L600?

The Kohler L600 has a displacement of 0.9728315 liters.

Which generators use the Kohler L600 engine?

The Kohler L600 powers 1 generator set(s), including Kohler ES799.

How often should you change the oil in the Kohler L600?

The Kohler L600 oil change interval is every 50 hours.

What is a common problem with the Kohler L600 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Kohler L600 is: Starter not engaging. Fix: Drive pinion may be spinning. Automotive crank plants only.