Service parts for the CH440
Grouped by system, with how many of each the parts manual calls for.
Air intake
1 requiredFuel system
1 requiredOil system
1 requiredBelts
1 requiredIgnition
1 requiredPrices captured from merchant listings; some links are affiliate links. Confirm against your serial number before ordering.
Specifications
| Prime power | 10.5 kW |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 0.63 L |
Maintenance & consumables
| Item | Spec | Capacity | Part # | Interval | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air filter | Air Filter (if equipped) | 17590-11 | Amazon eBay | ||
| Fuel filter | Fuel Filter (if equipped) | 17590-11 | Amazon eBay | ||
| Oil filter | Oil Filter (if equipped) | 17590-11 | Amazon eBay | ||
| Battery | Minimum 230 cold cranking amps / 18 amp hours | — | |||
| Belt | Belt (if equipped) | 17590-11 | Amazon eBay | ||
| Coolant filter | — | ||||
| Oil | Other high-quality detergent oils (including synthetic) of API service class SJ or higher; Kohler oils recommended; select viscosity by ambient temperature (5W-30, 10W-30, SAE 30) | 1.3 L | — | 100 hr | |
| Spark plug | Gap 0.03 in. (0.76 mm); torque plug to 20 ft. lb. (27 N·m) | RC12YC | 500 hr | Amazon eBay $12.90 NAPA $11.52 FridayParts $19.99 |
Service intervals
27| Item | Action | Hours | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil (new engine) | Change | 5 hr | First service — Change oil after first 5 hours of operation on a new or overhauled engine | |
| oil bath air cleaner oil level in oil reservoir cup | Check | 8 hr | If equipped | |
| Quad-Clean precleaner | Clean | 50 hr | 12 mo | Service/replace - Air Cleaner/Intake |
| Quad-Clean precleaner | Replace | 50 hr | 12 mo | Every 50 Hours or Annually; Air Cleaner/Intake |
| Quad-Clean™ precleaner | Clean | 50 hr | 12 mo | Clean or replace. |
| Quad-Clean™ precleaner | Replace | 50 hr | 12 mo | Service/replace; or annually, whichever comes first |
| oil bath air cleaner foam filter or foam elements | Replace | 50 hr | Service/replace; if equipped. Perform more frequently under severe, dusty, dirty conditions | |
| oil in 2:1 with Clutch Reduction System | Change | 50 hr | CH245, CH255, CH270, CH395, CH440 | |
| oil in 2:1 with Clutch Reduction System (CH270, CH395, CH440) | Change | 50 hr | Gear Reduction System | |
| Cooling areas | Clean | 100 hr | 12 mo | Yearly or every 100 hours |
| Engine oil | Change | 300 hr | 12 mo | First service — Yearly or every 100 hours; new engine first change after 5 hours |
| Low-profile air cleaner element | Clean | 100 hr | 12 mo | Yearly or every 100 hours |
| Spark plug | Clean | 100 hr | 12 mo | Clean, set gap, or replace; yearly or every 100 hours |
| oil | Change | 100 hr | 12 mo | First service — Lubrication System |
| spark plug | Adjust | 100 hr | 12 mo | Clean, set gap, or replace spark plug and set gap. |
| Quad-Clean air cleaner element | Replace | 200 hr | 12 mo | Yearly or every 200 hours |
| Quad-Clean™ air cleaner element | Replace | 200 hr | 12 mo | Replace Quad-Clean™ air cleaner element. |
| Valve clearance | Adjust | 300 hr | 12 mo | Every 200 Hours; check and adjust when engine is cold; have a Kohler authorized dealer perform this service |
| starter motor drive | Other | 200 hr | 12 mo | Service starter motor drive, if so equipped; have a Kohler Engine Service Dealer perform this service. |
| Fuel filters (tank outlet and in-line) | Check | 300 hr | 12 mo | Clean or replace if needed (if equipped); yearly or every 300 hours |
| Fuel filters (tank outlet filter and in-line filter) | Check | 300 hr | Every 300 Hours; clean or replace if needed (if equipped); Fuel System | |
| Low-profile air cleaner element | Replace | 300 hr | 12 mo | Yearly or every 300 hours |
| fuel filters | Check | 300 hr | 12 mo | Check fuel tank outlet filter and in-line filter; clean or replace if needed (if equipped). |
| fuel filters (tank outlet filter and in-line filter) | Inspect | 300 hr | Check and clean or replace if needed (if equipped) | |
| oil in 6:1 Reduction System | Change | 300 hr | CH245, CH255, CH270 | |
| oil in 6:1 Reduction System (CH270) | Change | 300 hr | Gear Reduction System | |
| spark plug | Replace | 500 hr | 12 mo | Replace spark plug and set gap; or annually, whichever comes first |
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| Type | Item | Value | Unit | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearance | Camshaft Bore I.D. Max. Wear Limit | 14.018 | mm | |
| Clearance | Camshaft Bore I.D. Max. Wear Limit | 16.068 | mm | |
| Clearance | Camshaft Bore I.D. New | 14.000/14.018 | mm | |
| Clearance | Camshaft Bore I.D. New | 16.000/16.018 | mm | |
| Clearance | Camshaft Running Clearance | 0.007/0.043 | mm | |
| Clearance | Camshaft Running Clearance | 0.016/0.052 | mm | |
| Clearance | Camshaft bore I.D. new | 13.991/14.009 | mm (0.5508/0.5515 in.) | new |
| Clearance | Connecting Rod Crankpin End I.D. @ 21°C (70°F) New | 30.020/30.030 | mm | @ 21°C (70°F) |
| Clearance | Connecting Rod Crankpin End I.D. @ 21°C (70°F) New | 30.021/30.026 | mm | @ 21°C (70°F) |
| Clearance | Connecting Rod Crankpin End I.D. @ 21°C (70°F) New | 33.020/33.030 | mm | @ 21°C (70°F) |
| Clearance | Connecting Rod Crankpin End I.D. @ 21°C (70°F) New | 37.020/37.030 | mm | @ 21°C (70°F) |
| Clearance | Crankshaft End Play (free) | 0.025/0.703 | mm | |
| Clearance | Crankshaft End Play (free) | 0.0508/0.254 | mm | |
| Clearance | Crankshaft Runout (either end) | 0.025 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. Max. Wear Limit | 70.200 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. Max. Wear Limit | 78.185 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. Max. Wear Limit | 89.185 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. New | 70.020/70.035 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. New | 70.027/70.035 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. New | 78.000/78.015 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore I.D. New | 89.000/89.015 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Bore Max. Out-of-Round / Max. Taper | 12.7 | microns | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Head Max. Out-of-Flatness | 0.08 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Head Max. Out-of-Flatness | 0.1 | mm | |
| Clearance | Cylinder Head Max. Out-of-Flatness | 0.10 | mm | |
| Clearance | Exhaust valve stem-to-valve guide running clearance | 0.040/0.07 | mm (0.0016/0.0026 in.) | |
| Clearance | Exhaust valve stem-to-valve guide running clearance | 0.085/0.112 | mm (0.0033/0.0044 in.) | |
| Clearance | Governor Cross Shaft-to-Crankcase Running Clearance | 0.020/0.069 | mm | |
| Clearance | Intake valve stem-to-valve guide running clearance | 0.025/0.055 | mm (0.0010/0.0022 in.) | |
| Clearance | Intake valve stem-to-valve guide running clearance | 0.038/0.065 | mm (0.0015/0.0026 in.) | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face O.D. New | 67.975/67.985 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face O.D. New | 69.975/69.995 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face O.D. New | 77.955/77.975 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face O.D. New | 88.955/88.975 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face-to-Cylinder Bore Running Clearance | 0.025/0.060 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face-to-Cylinder Bore Running Clearance | 0.033/0.067 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston Thrust Face-to-Cylinder Bore Running Clearance | 0.057/0.075 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston-to-Piston Pin Running Clearance | 0.002/0.016 | mm | |
| Clearance | Piston-to-Piston Pin Running Clearance | 0.009/0.016 | mm | |
| Clearance | Valve seat width | 0.80 | mm (0.0315 in.) | |
| Clearance | Valve seat width | 1.10 | mm (0.0433 in.) | |
| Clearance | Valve seat width | 1.20 | mm (0.0472 in.) | |
| Gap | Ignition Module Air Gap | 0.254 | mm | |
| Gap | Spark Plug Gap | 0.76 | mm | |
| Gap | Spark plug gap | 0.03 | in. (0.76 mm) | |
| Gap | Spark plug gap | 0.03 in. (0.76 mm) | in. | |
| Other | Fuel valve cup | 1/2 to 3/4 full turn | turn | after finger tight |
| Other | Maximum angle of operation (@ full oil level) | 25 | degrees | @ full oil level; exceeding may cause engine damage from insufficient lubrication |
| Other | Nominal valve face angle | 45 | ° | |
| Pressure | Compression | at least 45 | psi | warm engine, choke off, throttle wide open |
| Pressure | Compression (Command Twins) | 160 | psi | warm engine; not vary more than 15% between cylinders |
| Pressure | Compression (minimum) | 45 | psi | Warm engine, choke off, throttle wide open |
| Pressure | Crankcase Vacuum (minimum with water manometer or vacuum/pressure gauge) | 10.2 | cm water | no-load high speed |
| Pressure | Crankcase Vacuum (minimum) | 10.2 | cm of water | engine running |
| Pressure | Crankcase vacuum | minimum 10.16 | cm (4.00 in.) water | no-load high speed 3400-3600 RPM |
| Pressure | Crankcase vacuum (minimum) | 10.16 | cm water | 4.00 in. water, at 3400-3600 RPM no-load |
| Pressure | Governor stepper motor resistance (orange-pink and yellow-blue wires) | 25 | Ohms | ± 5 |
| Resistance | Ignition Module resistance | 13.5-18.0 | K ohms | |
| Resistance | Ignition module kill lead terminal to spark plug cap | 13.5-18.0 | K ohms | |
| Resistance | Ignition module small spade terminal to spark plug cap (kill lead removed) | 9.5-12.9 | K ohms |
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, 10W-30, SAE 30 | API service class SJ or higher | Kohler oils recommended; select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation per the temperature/viscosity chart. Oil capacity (refill): CH260/CH270 0.63 U.S. qt. (0.60 L); CH395/CH440 1.16 U.S. qt. (1.1 L). | ||
| Engine oil | API Service Class SJ or higher | 0.6 L | CH270 approximate oil capacity; 0.63 U.S. qt. | ||
| Engine oil | API service class SJ or higher (including synthetic); select viscosity by air temperature | API SJ or higher | We recommend use of Kohler oils. Oil capacity (refill): CH260/CH270 0.6 L, CH395 1.1 L, CH440 1.3 L | ||
| Engine oil | KOHLER PRO 10W-50 Synthetic Oil | API service class SJ or higher | All-season; 300-hour oil change intervals exclusive to KOHLER engines using KOHLER PRO 10W-50 Synthetic Oil | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 10W-30 | API Service Class SJ or higher | Select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation per Figure 1-3/6-1. | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 10W-30 (Kohler); 5W-20/5W-30 for cold; SAE 30 for hot | API Service Class SJ or higher (detergent) | Select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation; oil capacity 0.6 L (CH270), 1.1 L (CH395), 1.3 L (CH440) | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 30 | API Service Class SJ or higher | Select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation per Figure 1-3/6-1. | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 5W-20, 5W-30 | API Service Class SJ or higher | Select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation per Figure 1-3/6-1. | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, SAE 30 | API service class SJ or higher | Alternative engine oils require 100-hour oil change intervals; select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation per viscosity chart | ||
| Engine oil | Select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation (viscosity chart) | API service class SJ or higher (Kohler oils recommended) | Oil capacity (refill): 0.6 L (0.63 U.S. qt.) CH260/CH270; 1.1 L (1.16 U.S. qt.) CH395; 1.3 L (1.37 U.S. qt.) CH440. High-quality detergent oils (including synthetic) acceptable. | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 30 | API (American Petroleum Institute) service class SJ or higher; Kohler oils recommended; synthetic oils acceptable | -30°C to 40°C | Select viscosity based on air temperature at time of operation as shown in the viscosity chart (chart axis -30 °C to 40 °C); REFILL capacities per specification table: CH260/CH270 0.60 L, CH395/CH440 1.1 L | |
| Fuel | Clean, fresh unleaded gasoline, 87 (R+M)/2 octane or higher (90 RON minimum) | Leaded gasoline not recommended; gasohol up to 10% ethanol approved; E20/E85 not approved; MTBE up to 15% approved. Fuel tank capacity 4.1 L (CH270), 7.3 L (CH395/CH440) | |||
| Fuel | Clean, fresh unleaded gasoline; Octane rating of 87 (R+M)/2 or higher; RON 90 octane minimum | up to 10% ethyl alcohol / 90% unleaded; MTBE max 15% by volume | E15, E20 and E85 are NOT approved; do not use gasoline older than 30 days; do not add oil to gasoline | ||
| Fuel | Clean, fresh unleaded gasoline; octane rating 87 (R+M)/2 or higher; RON 90 octane minimum | Gasoline up to 10% ethyl alcohol/90% unleaded acceptable; MTBE and unleaded gasoline blend (max 15% MTBE by volume) approved; E15, E20 and E85 NOT approved; do not add oil to gasoline; do not use gasoline older than 30 days | |||
| Fuel | Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline; octane rating 87 (R+M)/2 or higher; RON 90 minimum | Gasoline up to 10% ethyl alcohol/90% unleaded acceptable; MTBE blend (max 15% by volume) approved; E15/E20/E85 NOT approved; do not add oil to gasoline; do not use gasoline older than 30 days | |||
| Fuel | Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline; octane rating 87 (R+M)/2 or higher; Research Octane Number (RON) 90 octane minimum | Up to 10% ethyl alcohol / 90% unleaded acceptable; MTBE blend max 15% MTBE by volume approved; E15, E20 and E85 are NOT approved | Do not add oil to gasoline; do not use gasoline older than 30 days; do not overfill tank | ||
| Fuel | Octane rating 87 (R+M)/2 or higher; RON 90 octane minimum | Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline | Gasoline up to 10% ethyl alcohol/90% unleaded acceptable; MTBE blend max 15% by volume approved; do not add oil to gasoline; do not use gasoline older than 30 days; E15, E20 and E85 NOT approved. | ||
| Fuel | Unleaded gasoline, pump sticker octane rating 87 (R+M)/2 or higher; 90 RON minimum | Gasohol up to 10% ethyl alcohol approved; E20/E85 not approved; MTBE up to 15% by volume approved | Do not use leaded gasoline on EFI engines or other models where exhaust emissions are regulated. | ||
| Gear oil | 20W-40 or 20W-50 | 0.5 L | 2:1 with clutch gear reduction case (CH245, CH255, CH270, CH395, CH440); engines with this system must be operated at 2400 RPM or higher under load | ||
| Grease | Lithium grease | Apply light coating to oil seal lips after installing crankcase/closure plate oil seals |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
Procedures
12Adjust Valve Tappet Clearance adjustment
Tools: Flat feeler gauge
- Make sure piston is still at top of compression stroke.
- Insert a flat feeler gauge between rocker arm and valve stem.
- Adjust clearance by loosening locknut and turning adjuster (clockwise to decrease, counterclockwise to increase).
- Hold adjuster from turning and tighten locknut.
- Recheck clearance is correct.
Governor Adjustments - Initial Adjustment Procedure adjustment
⚠ Make sure carburetor is mounted and secured in place when adjustment is made/checked
- Close fuel shut-off valve.
- Remove air cleaner outer cover; access governor shaft and lever joint.
- Loosen governor lever mounting nut.
- CH260, CH270: Move governor lever clockwise until it stops. Rotate governor cross shaft clockwise until it stops.
- CH395, CH440: Move governor lever counterclockwise until it stops. Rotate governor cross shaft counterclockwise until it stops.
- Hold both in this position and torque governor lever nut to 12 N·m (106 in. lb.).
Governor Initial Adjustment adjustment
Tools: Torque wrench
- Close fuel shut-off valve.
- Remove air cleaner outer cover and reposition fuel tank to access governor cross shaft and lever joint.
- Loosen governor lever mounting nut.
- CH260, CH270: Move governor lever clockwise until it stops. Rotate governor cross shaft clockwise until it stops.
- CH395, CH440: Move governor lever counterclockwise until it stops. Rotate governor cross shaft counterclockwise until it stops.
- Hold both in this position and torque governor lever nut to 12 N·m (106 in. lb.).
Governor Initial Adjustment - CH270 adjustment
Tools: Wrench, Torque wrench
- Close fuel shut-off valve.
- Remove air cleaner outer cover and access governor shaft and lever joint.
- Loosen governor lever mounting nut.
- Move governor lever clockwise until it stops.
- Rotate governor shaft clockwise until it stops.
- Hold both in position and tighten governor lever nut to 12 N·m (106 in. lb.).
Governor Initial Adjustment - CH395, CH440 adjustment
Tools: Wrench, Torque wrench
- Close fuel shut-off valve.
- Remove air cleaner outer cover and access governor shaft and lever joint.
- Loosen governor lever mounting nut.
- Move governor lever counterclockwise until it stops.
- Rotate governor shaft counterclockwise until it stops.
- Hold both in position and tighten governor lever nut to 12 N·m (106 in. lb.).
Initial Governor Adjustment adjustment
- Close fuel shut-off valve.
- Remove air cleaner outer cover; access governor cross shaft and lever joint.
- Loosen governor lever mounting nut.
- CH260, CH270: move governor lever clockwise until it stops; rotate cross shaft clockwise until it stops.
- CH395, CH440: move governor lever counterclockwise until it stops; rotate cross shaft counterclockwise until it stops.
- Hold both in position and torque governor lever nut.
Install Push Rods and Rocker Arms / Adjust Valve Tappet Clearance adjustment
Tools: Flat feeler gauge, Torque wrench
- Dip ends of push rods in engine oil and install in their respective locations, seating each into tappet socket.
- Install push rod guide plate, aligning holes for rocker arm studs. Screw in rocker arm studs and torque to 13.6 N·m (120 in. lb.).
- Assemble rocker arms, adjusters, and locknuts onto studs and push rods; finger tighten rocker arm pivot jam locknuts.
- Make sure piston is at top of compression stroke.
- Insert a flat feeler gauge between rocker arm and valve stem. Clearance for intake and exhaust is 0.076-0.127 mm (0.003-0.005 in.) cold.
- Loosen locknut and turn adjuster to adjust clearance; turn clockwise to decrease, counterclockwise to increase.
- Hold adjuster from turning and tighten locknut. Torque locknut to 10 N·m (89 in. lb.).
- Recheck clearance is correct.
Low Idle Speed (RPM) Adjustment adjustment
⚠ Carburetor adjustments should be made only after engine has warmed up.
- Place throttle control into idle or slow position.
- Turn low idle speed adjusting screw in or out to obtain an idle speed of 1800 RPM (± 75 RPM).
3/4/10/18 Amp Battery Charging System Test diagnostic
⚠ Voltage tests should be made with engine running at 3600 RPM - no load. Battery must be fully charged.
Tools: Ammeter, DC voltmeter, AC voltmeter, Ohmmeter, 2.5 ohm 100 watt resistor (for load)
- Separate bullet connector in white lead from rectifier-regulator. Connect ammeter from female terminal to battery positive; DC voltmeter from female terminal to battery negative.
- Run engine at 3600 RPM and read voltage. If 14.0 volts or more, apply minimum 5 amp load and observe ammeter.
- If voltage is less than 14.0 volts or charge rate does not increase, test stator: separate bullet connectors in AC (white) leads and measure AC output across stator leads at 3600 RPM.
- With engine stopped, measure resistance from each stator lead to ground using an ohmmeter.
Crankcase Vacuum Test diagnostic
⚠ Carbon Monoxide can cause severe nausea, fainting or death. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed spaces.
⚠ Rotating Parts can cause severe injury. Stay away while engine is in operation.
Tools: Water manometer or vacuum/pressure gauge (inches of water gauge), Rubber stopper and adapter
- Insert rubber stopper into oil fill hole with pinch clamp installed on hose; connect hose between stopper and one manometer tube.
- Start engine and run no-load high speed.
- Open clamp and note water level in tube. Engine side should be minimum 10.2 cm (4 in.) above open side.
- Close pinch clamp before stopping engine.
- If vacuum is low/no vacuum or pressure is present, check breather, seals/gaskets, piston blow by or leaky valves, and restricted exhaust.
Cylinder Leakdown Test diagnostic
Tools: Cylinder leakdown tester, Holding tool, 3/8 in. breaker bar
- Run engine for 3-5 minutes to warm it up.
- Remove spark plug(s) and air filter from engine.
- Rotate crankshaft until piston being tested is at top dead center (TDC) of compression stroke. Hold engine in this position.
- Install adapter into spark plug hole, but do not attach it to tester at this time.
- Turn regulator knob completely counterclockwise.
- Connect an air source of at least 50 psi to tester.
- Turn regulator knob clockwise until gauge needle is in yellow set area at low end of scale.
- Connect tester quick-connect to adapter hose; gradually open tester valve while holding engine at TDC.
- Note gauge reading and listen for escaping air at combustion air intake, exhaust outlet, and crankcase breather.
Electric Starting System Tests diagnostic
Tools: DC voltmeter, Jumper leads, Ohmmeter
- Test battery on unit: connect DC voltmeter across battery terminals and read voltage (key switch OFF), then turn key switch to start position and read again.
- Remove electric starter cover panel and check fuse inside plastic holder.
- Disconnect blue relay lead. Be sure transmission is in neutral and PTO is OFF. Connect jumper lead from battery positive to relay terminal.
- Use a known good fully-charged battery and jumper cables to test starter motor.
- Disconnect leads from starter relay and remove it for testing with an ohmmeter.
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 CH440?
The Kohler CH440 has an engine oil capacity of 0.63 liters (0.7 US quarts), per the manufacturer specification sheet.
What oil filter does the Kohler CH440 use?
The Kohler CH440 uses oil filter part number 17590-11.
What fuel filter fits the Kohler CH440?
The Kohler CH440 uses fuel filter part number 17590-11.
Which air filter part number does the Kohler CH440 take?
The Kohler CH440 uses air filter part number 17590-11.
Troubleshooting
173Symptoms & remedies
| Symptom | Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Will Not Start | No Fuel | |
| Will Not Start | Improper Fuel | |
| Will Not Start | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Will Not Start | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Will Not Start | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Will Not Start | Engine Overloaded | |
| Will Not Start | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Will Not Start | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Hard Starting | No Fuel | |
| Hard Starting | Improper Fuel | |
| Hard Starting | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Hard Starting | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Hard Starting | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Hard Starting | Engine Overloaded | |
| Hard Starting | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Hard Starting | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Stops Suddenly | No Fuel | |
| Stops Suddenly | Improper Fuel | |
| Stops Suddenly | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Stops Suddenly | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Stops Suddenly | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Stops Suddenly | Engine Overloaded | |
| Stops Suddenly | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Stops Suddenly | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Lacks Power | No Fuel | |
| Lacks Power | Improper Fuel | |
| Lacks Power | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Lacks Power | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Lacks Power | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Lacks Power | Engine Overloaded | |
| Lacks Power | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Lacks Power | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Operates Erratically | No Fuel | |
| Operates Erratically | Improper Fuel | |
| Operates Erratically | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Operates Erratically | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Operates Erratically | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Operates Erratically | Engine Overloaded | |
| Operates Erratically | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Operates Erratically | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Knocks or Pings | No Fuel | |
| Knocks or Pings | Improper Fuel | |
| Knocks or Pings | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Knocks or Pings | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Knocks or Pings | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Knocks or Pings | Engine Overloaded | |
| Knocks or Pings | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Knocks or Pings | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Overheats | No Fuel | |
| Overheats | Improper Fuel | |
| Overheats | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| Overheats | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| Overheats | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| Overheats | Engine Overloaded | |
| Overheats | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| Overheats | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| High Fuel Consumption | No Fuel | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Improper Fuel | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Dirt In Fuel Line | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Dirty Debris Screen | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Incorrect Oil Level | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Engine Overloaded | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Dirty Air Cleaner | |
| High Fuel Consumption | Faulty Spark Plug | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Empty fuel tank | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Fuel shut-off valve closed | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Poor fuel, dirt or water in the fuel system | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Clogged fuel line | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Spark plug lead disconnected | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Kill switch in OFF position | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Faulty spark plug | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Faulty ignition module | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Low oil level | |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start | Flywheel key sheared | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Restricted fuel tank cap vent | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Poor fuel, dirt or water in the fuel system | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Faulty or misadjusted choke or throttle controls | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Loose wires or connections that short the kill terminal of ignition module to ground | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Faulty cylinder head gasket | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Faulty carburetor | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Intake system leak | |
| Engine Starts But Does Not Keep Running | Low oil level | |
| Engine Starts Hard | PTO drive is engaged | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Dirt or water in the fuel system | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Clogged fuel line | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Loose or faulty wires or connections | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Faulty or misadjusted choke or throttle controls | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Faulty spark plug | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Low compression | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Weak spark | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Engine overheated-cooling/air circulation restricted | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Quality of fuel | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Flywheel key sheared | |
| Engine Starts Hard | Intake system leak | |
| Engine Will Not Crank | PTO drive is engaged | |
| Engine Will Not Crank | Battery (if equipped) is discharged | |
| Engine Will Not Crank | Faulty electric starter or solenoid (electric start) | |
| Engine Will Not Crank | Pawls not engaging in drive cup (retractable start) | |
| Engine Will Not Crank | Seized internal engine components | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Dirt or water in the fuel system | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Spark plug lead loose | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Poor quality of fuel | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Faulty spark plug | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Loose wires or connections that intermittently ground the ignition kill circuit | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Engine overheated | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Faulty ignition module or incorrect air gap | |
| Engine Runs But Misses | Carburetor adjusted incorrectly | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Dirt or water in the fuel system | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Stale fuel and/or gum in carburetor | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Faulty spark plug | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Fuel supply inadequate | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Idle fuel adjusting needle improperly set | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Idle speed adjusting screw improperly set | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Low compression | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Restricted fuel tank cap vent | |
| Engine Will Not Idle | Engine overheated-cooling system/air circulation problem | |
| Engine Overheats | Air intake/grass screen, cooling fins, or cooling shrouds clogged | |
| Engine Overheats | Excessive engine load | |
| Engine Overheats | Low crankcase oil level | |
| Engine Overheats | High crankcase oil level | |
| Engine Overheats | Faulty carburetor | |
| Engine Overheats | Lean fuel mixture | |
| Engine Knocks | Excessive engine load | |
| Engine Knocks | Low crankcase oil level | |
| Engine Knocks | Old or improper fuel | |
| Engine Knocks | Internal wear or damage | |
| Engine Knocks | Poor quality fuel | |
| Engine Knocks | Incorrect grade of oil | |
| Engine Loses Power | Low crankcase oil level | |
| Engine Loses Power | High crankcase oil level | |
| Engine Loses Power | Dirty air cleaner element | |
| Engine Loses Power | Dirt or water in the fuel system | |
| Engine Loses Power | Excessive engine load | |
| Engine Loses Power | Engine overheated | |
| Engine Loses Power | Faulty spark plug | |
| Engine Loses Power | Low compression | |
| Engine Loses Power | Exhaust restriction | |
| Engine Loses Power | Incorrect governor setting | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Incorrect oil viscosity/type | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Clogged, broken or inoperative crankcase breather | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Worn or broken piston rings | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Worn cylinder bore | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Worn valve stems/valve guides | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Crankcase overfilled | |
| Engine Uses Excessive Amount of Oil | Blown head gasket/overheated | |
| Oil Leaks from Oil Seals, Gaskets | Clogged, broken or inoperative crankcase breather | |
| Oil Leaks from Oil Seals, Gaskets | Loose or improperly torqued fasteners | |
| Oil Leaks from Oil Seals, Gaskets | Piston blowby, or leaky valves | |
| Oil Leaks from Oil Seals, Gaskets | Restricted exhaust | |
| No Crankcase Vacuum/Pressure in Crankcase | Crankcase breather clogged or inoperative | Replace valve cover and recheck pressure. Breather is integral part of valve cover and cannot be serviced separately. |
| No Crankcase Vacuum/Pressure in Crankcase | Seals and/or gaskets leaking. Loose or improperly torqued fasteners | Replace all worn or damaged seals and gaskets. Make sure all fasteners are tightened securely. Use appropriate torque values and sequences when necessary. |
| No Crankcase Vacuum/Pressure in Crankcase | Piston blow by or leaky valves (confirm by compression or cylinder leakdown tests and inspecting components) | Recondition piston, rings, cylinder bore, valves, and valve guides. |
| No Crankcase Vacuum/Pressure in Crankcase | Restricted exhaust | Check exhaust screen/spark arrestor. Clean or replace as needed. Repair or replace any other damaged/restricted muffler or exhaust system parts. |
| Engine starts hard, runs roughly or stalls at idle speed | Low idle fuel mixture (some models)/speed improperly adjusted | Adjust the idle speed screw or the idle mixture screw. |
| Engine runs rich (indicated by black, sooty exhaust smoke, misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting, or excessive throttle opening) | Clogged air cleaner | Clean or replace. |
| Engine runs rich (indicated by black, sooty exhaust smoke, misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting, or excessive throttle opening) | Choke partially closed during operation | Check the choke lever/linkage to ensure choke is operating properly. |
| Engine runs rich (indicated by black, sooty exhaust smoke, misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting, or excessive throttle opening) | Low idle fuel mixture is improperly adjusted | Adjust idle mixture screw. |
| Engine runs rich (indicated by black, sooty exhaust smoke, misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting, or excessive throttle opening) | Dirt under the fuel inlet needle | Remove needle; clean needle and seat and blow with compressed air. |
| Engine runs rich (indicated by black, sooty exhaust smoke, misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting, or excessive throttle opening) | Bowl vent or air bleeds plugged | Remove low idle fuel adjusting needle. Clean vent, ports, and air bleeds. Blow out all passages with compressed air. |
| Engine runs rich (indicated by black, sooty exhaust smoke, misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting, or excessive throttle opening) | Leaky, cracked or damaged float | Submerge float to check for leaks. |
| Engine runs lean (indicated by misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting or excessive throttle opening) | Intake air leak | Check if carburetor is loose or one of the intake gaskets is leaking. |
| Engine runs lean (indicated by misfiring, loss of speed and power, governor hunting or excessive throttle opening) | Idle holes plugged; dirt in fuel delivery channels | Clean main fuel jet and all passages; blow out with compressed air. |
| Fuel leaks from carburetor | Float damaged | Replace float. |
| Fuel leaks from carburetor | Dirt under fuel inlet needle | See Remedy 2d (remove needle; clean needle and seat and blow with compressed air). |
| Fuel leaks from carburetor | Bowl vents plugged | Blow out with compressed air. |
| Fuel leaks from carburetor | Carburetor bowl gasket leaks | Replace gasket. |
| Engine Will Not Start | Ignition system fault (no spark at tester) | If tester is firing, ignition system is good. Install a new spark plug and try to start engine. If it still will not start, check other possible causes (fuel, compression, etc.). If tester does not fire, go to Step 2. |
| Engine Will Not Start | Shorted lead in the kill circuit or a faulty switch | Disconnect the bullet connector where the kill lead plugs into the harness and repeat the spark test. If spark is now present, check for a shorted lead in the kill circuit or a faulty switch (Step 7). If there is still no spark, go to Step 3. |
| Engine Will Not Start | Oil Sentry™ control module or float switch faulty | Disconnect the bullet connector where the Oil Sentry™ control module joins the lead from the Oil Sentry™ float switch (yellow leads) and repeat spark test. If spark is now present, test the control module (Step 4) and the float switch (Step 5). If there is still no spark, test the ignition module (Step 6). |
| Engine Will Not Start | Oil Sentry™ control module faulty | Set an ohmmeter to the Rx1 scale and zero the meter. Connect the black ohmmeter lead to the yellow Oil Sentry™ control module lead and touch the red ohmmeter lead to the black wire. Continuity should be indicated. Replace Oil Sentry™ control module for any other results. |
| Engine Will Not Start | Oil Sentry™ float switch faulty | With the oil at the proper level, no continuity should have been indicated. After the oil was drained, continuity should have been indicated. If test results are other than specified, remove the closure plate from the engine and remove the float switch for further testing. If the lead wire is bare, allowing it to short, repair with electrical tape or replace float switch. Switch continuity should be as indicated in Figure 8-4. If not, replace it. |
| Engine Will Not Start | Ignition module resistance out of specification | Resistance of the ignition module should be 13.5-18.0 K ohms. Resistance of the cap should be 4-6 K ohms. Resistance should be 9.5-12.9 K ohms. If resistance is not in this range, replace the module. |
| Engine Will Not Start | Faulty ignition/key switch | Continuity should be indicated when and only when switch is in the OFF position. Replace switch for any other results. On electric start engines, continuity should be indicated between the black and black/white leads only when the key switch is in the OFF position. There should be continuity between the red and red/white leads only in the start position. Replace switch for any other results. |
Fault codes and symptom→remedy steps extracted from this model’s service/owner documentation; verify against the official manual before servicing.
Repair guides
26- 3/4/10/18 Amp Battery Charging System Test
- Add Fuel
- Carburetor Disassembly and Overhaul
- Carburetor Removal
- Clean Fuel Valve Cup
- Drive Replacement CH440 Type II Starter
- Electrical Starting System Tests
- Electronic Ignition Systems and Oil Sentry™ Tests
- Fuel Valve Cleaning
- Governor Adjustments - Initial Adjustment Procedure
- Governor Initial Adjustment - CH270
- Governor Initial Adjustment - CH395, CH440
- Install Ignition Module
- Install Push Rods and Rocker Arms / Adjust Valve Tappet Clearance
- Prepare Engine for Storage
- Quad-Clean Air Cleaner Service
- Relay (Solenoid) Replacement CH395, CH440
- Retractable Starter Pawl Replacement
- Rope Replacement
- Service Fuel Tank Filter
Step-by-step procedures compiled from the Kohler service manual for this model.
Parts
12| Part # | Description | Qty | System | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 083 15-S | Precleaner | Air filter | buy | |
| 17 083 21-S | Air Filter | Air filter | KuduParts $9.00 FridayParts $10.99 | |
| 17 590 23 | Filtre à air | Air filter | buy | |
| 17 883 03-S1 | Air Filter/Precleaner | Air filter | buy | |
| 17590-11 | Air Filter (if equipped) | 1 | Air filter | Amazon eBay |
| KOH-0678901234 | Foam Element (If Equipped) | 1 | Air filter | Amazon eBay |
| RC12YC | Recommended Spark Plug | 1 | Spark plug | Amazon eBay $12.90 NAPA $11.52 FridayParts $19.99 |
| 17 590 20 | Air Cleaner Cover | Service part / kit | buy | |
| 17 757 03-S | Carburetor Repair Kit | Service part / kit | buy | |
| 17 789 02-S | Maintenance Kit | Service part / kit | buy | |
| CH260-CH440 | Governor Components | 1 | Service part / kit | Amazon eBay |
| CH440 | Tapa de válvula | 1 | Service part / kit | Amazon eBay $35.27 FridayParts $10.28 |
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.
Available documents
Engine spec — Command Pro 4 5 14hp (Kohler)Engine spec — Command Pro 6 14HP (Kohler)Engine spec — REHLKO Command PRO 4.5–14 HP (Kohler)Engine spec — REHLKO Gasoline Full line (Kohler)Reference — Gasoline Full line (Kohler)Reference — KOHLER Command PRO Horizontals (Kohler)Owner's manual — 17 590 18 EN (Kohler)Owner's manual — 17 590 20 EN (Kohler)Owner's manual — 17 590 23 (Kohler)Owner's manual — 17 590 23 FRF (Kohler)Owner's manual — 17 590 28 EN (Kohler)Owner's manual — 29606 (Kohler)Owner's manual — Kohler-CH440-Owners-Operating-Manual (Kohler)Parts manual — 25 800 148 Accessories Guide (Kohler)Service manual — 14hp-kohler-service-manual (Kohler)Service manual — 17 690 01 EN (Kohler)Service manual — 17 690 03 ESS (Kohler)Service manual — 7hpKohlerServiceManual (Kohler)Service manual — E-2112-C MaintenanceKits 8569 (Kohler)Service manual — Kohler CH440 - Engine Owner Manual (Kohler)
This page was generated from the 20 manufacturer documents above by automated extraction; every figure shown is copied from one of them. How the data is compiled.