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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

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

  1. Move the generator set master switch to the OFF position.
  2. Disconnect the power to the battery charger.
  3. Disconnect the engine starting battery, negative (--) lead first.
  4. Remove the housing side panel.
  5. Remove the oil drain hose from its retaining clip and lower into an oil collection container.
  6. Open the oil drain valve and allow the engine oil to drain completely.
  7. Close the oil drain valve and replace the hose cap.
  8. Remove the oil filter with an oil filter wrench and clean the gasket sealing surface.
  9. Apply a light coat of clean oil to the new filter seal and install the new oil filter.
  10. Fill the engine to the F mark on the dipstick.
  11. Reconnect the starting battery, negative (--) lead last, and reconnect power to the battery charger.
  12. Start and run the generator set for a minute, stop, wait 1 minute, and recheck oil level.

Tools required

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.

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