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Kohler — Adjust Low Idle Fuel and Speed

Adjustments · Carburetor

From a Kohler service manual covering: CV17, CV17-745, CV18, CV20, CV22, CV23, CV25, CV26, CV730, CV740, CV745. Check it applies to your exact model before use.

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Before you start

  • Carburetor adjustments should be made only after the engine has warmed up.
  • Certified engines may have a fixed idle or limiter cap; do not attempt steps 1 and 2.

Procedure

  1. With engine stopped, turn the low idle fuel adjusting needle in (clockwise) until lightly bottomed.
  2. Preliminary setting: turn the needle out (counterclockwise) 2-1/4 turns from lightly bottomed.
  3. Run engine at half throttle 5-10 minutes to warm up; verify throttle and choke plates fully open.
  4. Low idle speed: place throttle in idle/slow; set low idle speed to 1200 RPM (± 75 RPM) with the low idle speed screw.
  5. Low idle fuel: turn the low idle fuel needle in slowly until engine speed decreases, then back out approximately 3/4 to 1 turn.
  6. Recheck idle speed with a tachometer and readjust as necessary.

Tools required

Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.

Specs & values

  • Low idle speed 1200 RPM ± 75 RPM
  • Preliminary needle setting 2-1/4 turns out

Source: Kohler service 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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