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Kohler 38RCLB Generator Set

The Kohler 38RCLB is a 38 kW (47 kVA) Natural Gas or LPG standby generator set powered by a Kohler KG2204T engine. It is available at 120/240 V, 120/208 V, 127/220 V, 277/480 V, 220/380 V, 230/400 V and 240/416 V, 60 Hz and rated 158 A. It holds about 4.2 L (1.1 gal) of oil and 13.2 L (3.5 gal) of coolant, with a maximum ambient rating of 45 °C. Starting uses 1 group-24 battery rated 630 CCA at 12 V. The set measures 1880×836×1169 mm (74.0×32.9×46.0 in), weighs about 621 kg (1369 lb) and produces 61 dBA at 7 m.

38 kW
Standby
2.2 L
Displacement
4.2 L
Oil capacity
5
Document types

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Typical fuel consumption for 35–40 kW Bi-Fuel (NG/LP) generators →

Compare with other 35–40 kW Bi-Fuel (NG/LP) generators →

Specifications

FuelNatural Gas or LPG
Frequency60.0 Hz
Standby power38 kW
Standby kVA47
ControllerRDC2
Oil capacity4.2 L
Alternator4-Pole, Rotating-Field (4-pole, Class Class H insulation)
Voltage options120/240 V, 120/208 V, 127/220 V, 277/480 V, 220/380 V, 230/400 V, 240/416 V
Rated current158 A
Power factor1.0 (single-phase), 0.8 (three-phase)
Battery group24
Battery cranking630 CCA
Battery voltage12 V
Battery quantity1
Coolant capacity13.2 L
Engine jacket water2.65 L
Max ambient45 °C
Dimensions (L×W×H)1880×836×1169 mm
Dry weight621 kg
Wet weight621 kg
Sound level61.0 dBA @ 7 m

Engine

Kohler KG2204T
Oil capacity4.2 L
Coolant capacity13.2 L
Displacement2.2 L
AspirationTurbocharged
Rated speed1800 rpm

Maintenance & consumables

for the Kohler KG2204T
ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterClean quarterly or 20 hr.; replace at 3 years or 400 hr.—400 hr
Oil filter×1—120 hr
BatteryCheck charge, electrolyte level, cracks/corrosion; clean cables—120 hr
Coolant50% ethylene glycol long-life coolant / 50% clean, softened water—500 hr
Oil4.2 L—120 hr
Spark plugGap: 24RCL 0.9-1.0 mm (0.036-0.040 in.); 30RCL and 38RCLB 0.7-0.8 mm (0.028-0.030 in.). Torque: 24RCL 18 Nm (13.3 ft. lbs.); 30RCL and 38RCLB 25 Nm (18.4 ft. lbs.), plus additional 1/4 turn—500 hr

Service intervals

25
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Air cleaner elementClean20 hr3 moReplace at 3 years or 400 hours
Bolts and nuts for tightnessCheck20 hr3 moQuarterly or 20 hours
Battery cablesClean120 hr12 mo
Battery chargeCheck120 hr12 mo
Battery fluid levelCheck120 hr12 mo
Battery for cracks and corrosionCheck120 hr12 mo
Belts and belt tensionCheck120 hr12 moSee engine O/M
Engine oil and filterChange120 hr12 mo
Fuel regulator pressureCheck120 hr12 mo
Radiator exteriorCheck120 hr12 mo
Brushes and collector ringOther300 hr12 moAuthorized distributor/dealer only
Air induction for leaksCheck500 hr36 mo
Engine coolantChange500 hr36 moLong-life coolant: 5000 hours or 5 years
Hoses, conditionCheck500 hr36 moReplace as necessary
Intake manifold for vacuum leaksCheck500 hr36 mo
Secondary ignition coil wiresCheck500 hr36 moReplace as necessary
Spark plug wires for cuts, abrasions, or hardeningCheck500 hr36 moReplace as necessary
Spark plugsChange500 hr36 mo
Exhaust manifold for leaksCheck2000 hr60 moReplace as necessary
Exhaust piping for leaksCheck2000 hr60 mo
Fuel shutoff valve operationCheck2000 hr60 mo
HEGO (oxygen) sensor connections and wiresCheck2000 hr60 moSee engine O/M
Fuel lines and connectionsCheck3 moQuarterly
Vacuum lines and fittingsInspect60 mo5 years
Wiring for cuts, abrasions, or corrosionInspect60 mo5 years

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 gap0.51mm (0.02 in.)
GapSpark plug gap0.7--0.8mm (0.028--0.030 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.)
GapSpark plug gap0.9-1.0mm (0.036-0.040 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.)
PressureRadiator pressure cap rating97kPa (14 psi)
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--60.40ohms6-Lead, 600 V; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--60.45ohms6-Lead, 600 V; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--60.52ohms6-Lead, 600 V; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--60.60ohms6-Lead, 600 V; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--61.0ohms6-Lead, 600 V; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--6, 7--10, 8--11, 9--120.04ohms12-Lead; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--6, 7--10, 8--11, 9--120.08ohms12-Lead; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--6, 7--10, 8--11, 9--120.09ohms12-Lead; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--6, 7--10, 8--11, 9--120.11ohms12-Lead; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--6, 7--10, 8--11, 9--120.12ohms12-Lead; cold
ResistanceCold stator resistance, main windings 1--4, 2--5, 3--6, 7--10, 8--11, 9--120.20ohms12-Lead; cold
ResistanceExciter armature insulation resistance1.5MOhmsMegohmmeter applied 500 VDC; approximately 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates functional
ResistanceExciter field insulation resistance1.5MOhmsMegohmmeter applied 500 VDC; approximately 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates functional
ResistanceExciter field winding resistance (cold)6.0ohmsAll models except 4D8.3/4E8.3; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceExciter field winding resistance (cold)7.2ohms4D8.3/4E8.3; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceMain field (rotor) insulation resistance1.5MOhmsMegohmmeter applied 500 VDC; approximately 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates functional
ResistanceMain field (rotor) resistance (cold)3.2ohms12-Lead; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceMain field (rotor) resistance (cold)3.5ohms12-Lead; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceMain field (rotor) resistance (cold)3.8ohms12-Lead; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceMain field (rotor) resistance (cold)4.0ohms12-Lead; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceMain field (rotor) resistance (cold)4.3ohms12-Lead; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceMain field (rotor) resistance (cold)5.3ohms12-Lead; @ 20 C (68 F)
ResistanceStator insulation resistance1.5MOhmsMegohmmeter applied 500 VDC; approximately 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates functional
TemperatureThermostat off temperature27C (80 F)
TemperatureThermostat on temperature16C (60 F)
TorqueAlternator fan to rotor assembly bolts10NmM6--1.0 Class 8.8; apply Loctite 242 Blue or equivalent to bolt threads
TorqueDrive discs to flywheel bolts43NmM8--1.25 Class 12.9; apply Loctite 242 Blue or equivalent to bolt threads
TorqueDrive discs to rotor shaft bolts33NmM8--1.25 Class 10.9; apply Loctite 242 Blue or equivalent to bolt threads
TorqueEnd bracket to generator adapter studs/nuts30NmM10--1.5
TorqueExciter armature lead to rectifier board screws1.8Nm#8--32
TorqueExciter armature retaining bolt65NmM10--1.50 Class 10.9
TorqueExciter field bolts5.8NmM5--0.8 Class 8.8
TorqueLeads A, B, C, F1, and F2 to spacer studs1.3NmFive stainless steel hex nuts
TorqueOil filter25Nm (18.4 ft. lbs.)after hand-tight plus 3/4 turn
TorqueRectifier board to exciter field screws4.0Nm#10--24
TorqueRotating rectifier board to spacer studs1.3NmFive stainless steel nylock nuts
TorqueRotor lead to rectifier board screws1.8Nm#8--32
TorqueSpacer to exciter armature screws3.9NmX-67-135 qty. 3
TorqueSpark plug18Nm (13.3 ft. lbs.)plus additional 1/4 turn
TorqueSpark plug25Nm (18.4 ft. lbs.)plus additional 1/4 turn
TorqueSpark plug torque15Nm (11 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug torque18Nm (13.3 ft. lb.)
TorqueSpark plug torque24.4--29.8Nm (18--22 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
Coolant50% ethylene glycol-based long-life coolant / 50% clean, softened waterabove -37°C13.2 L (3.5 gal.)13.7 L (3.6 gal.) with block heater; freeze protection to -37C (-34F), overheat protection to 149C (300F)
Engine oilSAE 5W-30 (cold environments); 10W-30 (hot environments, never below 0C/32F)API Starburst certification, service class SJ or higher (gasoline engines)4.2 L (4.4 qt.)CC/CD classification oils not acceptable
Greasemulti-purposeApply to O-ring and end bracket bearing bore during reassembly.

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

44
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
AC Sens LossAC Sensing LostAC sensing lost in Auto mode; warning after 1 sec if no output after crank disconnect, shutdown after 3 sec if voltage was present then lostWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Accy PwrOverAccessory Power OverloadOver current fault (short circuit) on the accessory controller power outputWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
ATS ComErrorATS Communication ErrorRXT 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 installation manual, wiring diagrams, and labels
Aux InputAuxiliary InputAn optional customer-connected input is closed (digital input from optional PIM)ShutdownCheck customer-supplied equipment
Battery CrLoCritically Low Battery VoltageBattery voltage falls below 11V for more than 10 seconds; inhibited during crankWarningCheck battery rating/condition and charger operation; charge or replace battery
Battery HighHigh Battery VoltageBattery voltage rises above 133% (16V) of the battery voltage setting for more than 10 secondsWarningCheck battery rating/condition and charger operation
Battery LowLow Battery VoltageBattery voltage falls below the battery voltage setting (typically 12.5V) for more than 90 seconds when engine is not runningWarningCheck battery rating/condition and charger operation; charge or replace battery
Chk DateTimeVerify Date Time SettingThe time and date have not been set on the generator controllerWarningEnter the date and time using the RDC2 controller
Coolant Lvl LowLow Coolant Level ShutdownThe coolant level switch input has been activatedShutdownCheck coolant level; check radiator hoses for leaks; contact dealer
CoolntTemp 0Coolant Temp 0 ShutdownECM reported coolant temperature sensor problem: 0 = high temperatureShutdownCheck coolant level and radiator/fans; contact dealer with fault code
CoolntTemp 3Coolant Temp 3 ShutdownECM reported coolant temperature sensor problem: 3 = high voltageShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
CoolntTemp 4Coolant Temp 4 ShutdownECM reported coolant temperature sensor problem: 4 = low voltageShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
CoolntTemp 5Coolant Temp 5 ShutdownECM reported coolant temperature sensor problem: 5 = open circuitShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
CoolTemp VhiEct Higher Than Expected 2Coolant temperature is extremely highShutdownCheck coolant level; check radiator/fans for obstruction; contact dealer with fault code
CoolTempHighEct Higher Than Expected 1Coolant temperature is too highWarningCheck coolant level; check radiator/fans for obstruction; contact dealer with fault code
Crank LostCrank Signal LostCrankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) timeout error occurredWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
ECM warningsECM warnings (any warning with ECM in the fault name)Group of faults that originate from the engine ECM and contain ECM in the fault nameWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
Emerg StopEmergency Stop ShutdownThe emergency stop switch has been activated, or there has been an open circuit in the wiringShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Eng Speed HighHigh Engine SpeedEngine speed exceeds 115% of normal running speed for more than 0.3 secondsShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Eng Speed LowLow Engine SpeedEngine speed drops below 85% of normal running speed for more than 3 secondsShutdownReduce the load; contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Exer Not SchATS Exercise Not ScheduledNo exercise has been scheduled on the RDC2 controllerWarningSet the exerciser per Section 2.5
Frequency HighHigh FrequencyGoverned frequency exceeds 110% of system frequency setpoint for more than 10 seconds (10 sec inhibit after start)ShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Frequency LowLow FrequencyGoverned frequency falls below 90% of system frequency setting for more than 10 seconds, or 1 Hz below setting for more than 60 secondsShutdownReduce the load and restart; contact dealer
Genset S/N UnavalUnavailable Genset Serial NumberGenerator set serial number is unavailableWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Ground FaultGround Fault WarningThe digital input for Ground Fault Warning is active (low); PIM requiredWarningCheck customer equipment connected to the PIM
IAT High 1Iat Higher Than Expected 1Engine manifold air temperature is too highWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
IAT Volt LoIat Low VoltageECM reported an Engine Air Temperature/Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor (TMAP) errorWarningContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service and provide the fault code
Lo Crank VltLow Cranking VoltageBattery voltage falls below 60% of system battery voltage for more than 6 seconds while the starter is engagedWarningCharge or replace the battery
Locked RotorLocked RotorNo engine rotation is sensed during cranking; shuts down 3 seconds after fault detectedShutdownCheck battery, connections, and for obstruction of alternator or engine; contact dealer
MainPwrOverLMain Power OverloadOver current fault on the controller power output (short circuit)ShutdownCheck for shorted run relay; check wiring for short circuits; contact dealer
Maint Req'dMaintenance Required WarningEngine maintenance is dueWarningCheck the maintenance schedule in the operation manual
Not in AutoNot In AutoThe generator set is not in Automatic (standby) mode; remote start/stop commands will be ignoredWarningPress AUTO to place the generator set in Automatic mode
Oil Pres LowLow Oil PressureThe engine ECM indicates low oil pressureShutdownCheck for leaks in the lubrication system; check oil level; check oil pressure switch and wiring
Over CrankOver CrankThree unsuccessful starting attemptsShutdownCheck fuel supply, spark plug, battery, and connections; contact dealer
PrimLoopOpnPrimary Loop OpenIgnition coil 1 voltage is below normal or there is an open circuitWarningCheck the battery voltage; contact dealer with fault code
PrimLoopShtPrimary Loop ShortedIgnition coil 1 voltage is abnormalWarningCheck the battery voltage; contact dealer with fault code
Spd Sens FltSpeed Sensor FaultEngine speed sensor has failed or engine stalled; ECM no longer reporting valid speedShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Volts L1-L2 HighHigh Generator Voltage L1-L2Output voltage exceeds 120% of system nominal voltage for more than 2 secondsShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Volts L1-L2 LowLow Generator Voltage L1-L2Output voltage falls below 80% of nominal system voltage for more than 10 secondsShutdownReduce the load and restart; contact dealer
Volts L2-L3 HighHigh Generator Voltage L2-L3Output voltage exceeds 120% of system nominal voltage for more than 2 secondsShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Volts L2-L3 LowLow Generator Voltage L2-L3Output voltage falls below 80% of nominal system voltage for more than 10 secondsShutdownReduce the load and restart; contact dealer
Volts L3-L1 HighHigh Generator Voltage L3-L1Output voltage exceeds 120% of system nominal voltage for more than 2 secondsShutdownContact an authorized distributor/dealer for service
Volts L3-L1 LowLow Generator Voltage L3-L1Output voltage falls below 80% of nominal system voltage for more than 10 secondsShutdownReduce the load and restart; contact dealer

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
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
Exciter Armature Test Procedure diagnostic

⚠ Hazardous voltage

⚠ Hot parts

Tools: Ohmmeter, Megohmmeter

  1. Disassemble the alternator.
  2. Disconnect exciter armature leads from rectifier module AC terminals.
  3. Set ohmmeter to R x 1 and check resistance across exciter armature leads.
  4. No continuity indicates an open exciter armature winding.
  5. Use a megohmmeter to apply 500 volts DC to either armature lead and the exciter armature frame.
  6. A reading of approximately 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates a functional armature.
Exciter Field Test Procedure diagnostic

⚠ Hazardous voltage

⚠ Hot parts

Tools: Ohmmeter, Megohmmeter

  1. Stop generator set and disconnect starting battery, negative (--) lead first.
  2. Disconnect FP/FN connector between controller/activator board and exciter field.
  3. Measure resistance across exciter field FN and FP leads with an ohmmeter.
  4. A low reading indicates an internal short; a high reading indicates an open winding.
  5. Use a megohmmeter to apply 500 volts DC from FN or FP lead to exciter field frame.
  6. A reading of approximately 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates a functional field.
Generator Main Field (Rotor) Test Procedure diagnostic

⚠ Hazardous voltage

⚠ Hot parts

Tools: Ohmmeter, Megohmmeter

  1. Disassemble generator and disconnect main field (rotor) windings at rectifier module terminals F+ and F--.
  2. Measure main field (rotor) resistance across F+ and F-- leads with ohmmeter.
  3. A low reading indicates an internal short; a high reading indicates an open winding.
  4. Use megohmmeter to apply 500 volts DC to either field lead and main field frame.
  5. A reading of 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates the main field is functional.
Rectifier Module Test Procedure diagnostic

⚠ Hazardous voltage

⚠ Hot parts

Tools: Multimeter with diode check, Ohmmeter

  1. Disconnect exciter armature and main field leads from rectifier module.
  2. Perform a diode check on all six rectifier board diodes.
  3. Use multimeter diode check or ohmmeter on R x 100 scale.
  4. Ohmmeter should show low resistance in one direction and high resistance with leads reversed.
  5. Replace rectifier module if any diode tests differently than described.
Resetting the Controller after a Fault Shutdown diagnostic

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

  1. Press the Select button to go to the Overview menu
  2. Press Select again to display the active fault
  3. Press Select; Confirm Clear Fault: NO is displayed
  4. Press the Up arrow button; Confirm Clear Fault: YES is displayed
  5. Press Select to enter YES and clear the fault
  6. Press Select to return to the Overview menu
  7. Press AUTO to put the generator set into automatic mode
Separate Excitation diagnostic

⚠ Accidental starting

⚠ Hazardous voltage

Tools: Ohmmeter, DC ammeter (0--10 A), 10-amp fuse, 12-volt battery, Voltmeter

  1. Stop the generator set and disconnect the FP/FN connector.
  2. Measure exciter field winding resistance with an ohmmeter and record the reading.
  3. Connect a DC ammeter, 10-amp fuse, and 12-volt battery to FP and FN exciter leads.
  4. Start the generator set and note the ammeter reading.
  5. An increasing reading indicates a shorted exciter field; a decreasing or unstable reading suggests a running open.
  6. If stable, check AC output across stator main windings and compare with Section 1 specifications.
  7. Stop the generator set.
Stator Test Procedure diagnostic

⚠ Hazardous voltage

⚠ Hot parts

Tools: Ohmmeter, Megohmmeter

  1. Press OFF on generator set controller.
  2. Disconnect generator set engine starting battery, negative (--) lead first.
  3. Check generator output lead connections and note voltage connection for reassembly.
  4. Disconnect all stator leads to isolate windings.
  5. Set ohmmeter to R x 1 and check stator continuity using single- or three-phase figures.
  6. Check cold resistance of stator windings and compare with Section 1 values.
  7. Use megohmmeter to apply 500 volts DC to any stator lead from each winding and stator frame.
  8. A reading of 1.5 MOhms and higher indicates the stator is functional.
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.
Filling Cooling System maintenance

⚠ Do not add coolant to a hot engine; cylinder block or head can crack

  1. Close the radiator coolant drain valve and tighten hose clamps
  2. Fill the radiator with 50% ethylene glycol / 50% clean softened water mixture
  3. Operate the engine with the radiator cap removed until the thermostat opens and upper hose is hot
  4. Stop the engine and allow it to cool
  5. Add coolant to just below the overflow tube on the filler neck
  6. Replace the radiator pressure cap
  7. Maintain the coolant overflow bottle level between Hot and Cold markings

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
110/2201Single
110/2203Delta
115/2301Single
1201SingleGenset System Voltage/Frequency/Phase table for controller setup
120/20834D8.312, ReconnectableThree-phase
120/2083Wye
120/24014E8.34Single-phase
120/2401Single
120/2403Delta
127/2203Wye
2201Single
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.

Common questions

What is the power rating of the Kohler 38RCLB?

The Kohler 38RCLB is rated 38 kW standby (47.0 kVA).

What engine does the Kohler 38RCLB use?

The Kohler 38RCLB is powered by the Kohler KG2204T engine.

What fuel does the Kohler 38RCLB use?

The Kohler 38RCLB runs on Natural Gas or LPG.

What's the oil capacity on a Kohler 38RCLB?

The Kohler KG2204T engine in the Kohler 38RCLB has an oil capacity of 4.2 liters.

How much coolant does the Kohler 38RCLB hold?

The Kohler 38RCLB cooling system holds 13.2 liters (3.5 US gallons) for the radiator system including the engine, per the manufacturer specification sheet.

What is the sound level of the Kohler 38RCLB?

The Kohler 38RCLB is rated at 61.0 dBA at 7 m, per the manufacturer specification sheet.

What is the dry weight of the Kohler 38RCLB?

The Kohler 38RCLB has a dry weight of 621 kg (1369 lb).

What voltage does the Kohler 38RCLB produce?

The Kohler 38RCLB is offered in 120/240 V, 120/208 V, 127/220 V, 277/480 V, 220/380 V, 230/400 V.

What battery does the Kohler 38RCLB use?

The Kohler 38RCLB uses 1 battery, 12 V each, 630 CCA, group 24, per the manufacturer specification sheet.

Which alternator is fitted to the Kohler 38RCLB?

The Kohler 38RCLB uses a 4-Pole, Rotating-Field alternator. It has 4 poles. Insulation class Class H.

Troubleshooting

6

Fault codes

CodeMeaningRemedy
Auxiliary InputAuxiliary Input — An optional customer-connected input is closed. (Digital input from optional PIM.)Check customer-supplied equipment.
Battery CrLoCritically Low Battery Voltage — Engine starting battery voltage falls below 11 V for more than 10 seconds. Inhibited during the engine crank cycle. Clears when the battery voltage returns to an acceptable level.Check the battery rating and condition.; Check the battery charger operation.; Charge or replace the battery.
Battery HighHigh Battery Voltage — Engine starting battery voltage rises above 133% (16 V) of the battery voltage setting for more than 10 seconds. Inhibited during the engine crank cycle. Clears when the battery voltage returns to an acceptable level.Check the battery rating and condition.; Check the battery charger operation.
Battery LowLow Battery Voltage — Engine starting battery voltage falls below the battery voltage setting (typically 12.5 volts) for more than 90 seconds when the engine is not running. Inhibited during the engine crank cycle. Clears when the battery voltage returns to an acceptable level.Check the battery rating and condition.; Check the battery charger operation.; Charge or replace the battery.
Chk DateTimeVerify Date Time Setting — The time and date have not been set on the generator controller.Enter the date and time using the RDC2 controller. See Figure 3-8 and Figure 3-16.
Coolant Lvl LowLow Coolant Level Shutdown — The coolant level switch input has been activated.Check coolant level.; Check radiator hoses for leaks.; Contact an authorized distributor/dealer for service.

Fault codes and symptom→remedy steps extracted from this model’s service/owner documentation; verify against the official manual before servicing. Full Kohler 38RCLB troubleshooting guide (72 entries) →

Parts

11
Part #DescriptionQtySystem
256984Battery, 12 volt wet-charged, BCI group size 24, 650 CCA at -18 C, 120 min. reserve capacity1Battery Amazon eBay
GM103786Battery heater wrap1Battery heater wrap Amazon eBay
GM104701Battery heater wrap1Battery heater wrap Amazon eBay
GM104708Battery heater wrap1Battery heater wrap Amazon eBay
GM100209Maintenance Service Kit1Service part / kit eBay
GM103784Battery heater wrap1Service part / kit Amazon eBay
GM104032-S1Service kit with two L-shaped metal shields and U-channel edging for shielding the RDC2 controller from EMI interference.1Service part / kit Amazon eBay
GM104699Battery heater wrap1Service part / kit Amazon eBay $30.00
GM104703-KP1Battery heater kit, 120 Volts, heater wrap rating 50 Watts, battery wrap length 864 mm (34 in.), power cord length 483 mm (19 in.), plug cord length 75 mm (3 in.)1Service part / kit Amazon eBay $105.00
GM89020-KP1Battery kit, wet-charged, contains 1 battery, BCI group size 24, 650 CCA, 120 min. reserve capacity (loose kit only)1Service part / kit Amazon eBay
GM92075Figure 1-24 Coolant Fill (30RCL and 38RCLB shown)1Service part / kit Amazon eBay

Service, wear & replacement parts referenced for this model and its engine — confirm the exact part for your serial number. See the full parts catalog to search and cross-reference.

Fuel consumption

RatingLoadL/hgal/h
Standby3.40.9
Standby25%5.81.53
Standby50%9.32.46
Standby75%11.43.01
Standby100%13.93.67

Available documents

Spec sheet (Kohler)Reference — g6130 (Kohler)Reference — g6132 (Kohler)Reference — tp6906 (Kohler)Owner's manual (Kohler)Owner's manual — tp6905 (Kohler)Parts manual (Kohler)Parts manual — kohlerpow datasheet stepid-2757002 (Kohler)Parts manual — tp6904 (Kohler)Parts manual — tp6908 (Kohler)Parts manual — tt1589 (Kohler)Service manual — 4f53249c-825d-4340-a887-aac9199ce897 (Kohler)Service manual — Controllers tt1589 (Kohler)Service manual — tp6878 4D 4E Alt (Kohler)Service manual — tp6878 (Kohler)Service manual — tp6878es (Kohler)Service manual — tp7007 (Kohler)Service manual — tt1445 (Kohler)Service manual — tt1584 (Kohler)Service manual — tt1633 (Kohler)Service manual — tt1691 (Kohler)Service manual — tt1742 (Kohler)

This page was generated from the 22 manufacturer documents above by automated extraction; every figure shown is copied from one of them. How the data is compiled.