Kohler 12RES / 18RES — Oil Change Procedure
Maintenance · Lubrication system
For the Kohler 12RES / 18RES, from the Kohler operator's manual.
Applies to: Kohler 12RES, Kohler 18RES, Kohler CH 740 engine, Kohler CH 980 engine
Before you start
- Drain the oil while it is still warm.
- Dispose of all waste materials (engine oil, fuel, filter, etc.) in an environmentally safe manner.
Parts for this job
- 12 050 01 Oil filter — Kohler 12RES Amazon eBay KuduParts $11.00 FridayParts $33.98
- 52 050 02-S Oil filter — Kohler 18RES Amazon eBay
Part numbers from the service-parts lists for Kohler 12RES, Kohler 18RES. Verify against your serial number before ordering; some links are affiliate links.
Procedure
- Move the generator set master switch to the OFF position.
- Disconnect the power to the battery charger.
- Disconnect the engine starting battery, negative (--) lead first.
- Remove the housing side panel.
- Remove the oil drain hose from its retaining clip and lower into an oil collection container.
- Open the oil drain valve and allow the engine oil to drain completely.
- Close the oil drain valve and replace the hose cap.
- Remove the oil filter with an oil filter wrench and clean the gasket sealing surface.
- Apply a light coat of clean oil to the new filter seal and install the new oil filter.
- Fill the engine to the F mark on the dipstick.
- Reconnect the starting battery, negative (--) lead last, and reconnect power to the battery charger.
- Start and run the generator set for a minute, stop, wait 1 minute, and recheck oil level.
Tools required
- oil filter wrench Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- 12 kW engine oil capacity 1.9 L (2.0 qt.)
- 18 kW engine oil capacity approximately 2.8 L (3.0 qt.)
Full service-parts list: Kohler 12RES →, Kohler 18RES →
Source: Kohler operator's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.