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Home›Repair guides›Kohler›Install the block heater

Kohler — Install the block heater

Installation

From a Kohler service manual covering: 38RCL, 48RCL, 48RCLB, 60RCL, 60RCLA. Check it applies to your exact model before use.

Applies to: Kohler 38RCL, Kohler 48RCL, Kohler 48RCLB, Kohler 60RCL, Kohler 60RCLA

Before you start

  • Block heater damage. The block heater will fail if the energized heater element is not immersed in coolant. Fill the cooling system before turning on the block heater.
  • Do not add coolant to a hot engine. Wait until the engine has cooled.
  • Hot coolant and steam. Stop the generator set and allow it to cool before removing the pressure cap.
  • Engine block heater. Hazardous voltage will cause severe injury or death.

Procedure

  1. Secure the block heater to the block heater mounting bracket (GM78546) using 4 screws (M933-06020-60), 4 washers (M125A-06-80), and 4 hex nuts (M6923-06-80).
  2. Secure the mounting bracket with block heater to the skid using 2 screws (M933-06016-60) and 2 hex nuts (M6923-06-80).
  3. Locate the 2 shutoff valves on opposite sides of the engine block and verify they are closed.
  4. Remove the pipe plug from each shutoff valve and discard the plugs.
  5. Apply pipe sealant to the threads of hose connectors X-391-19 and X-582-1.
  6. Install the 90 degree hose connector (X-391-19) in the shutoff valve closest to the block heater.
  7. Install the straight connector (X-582-1) in the shutoff valve on the opposite side of the engine.
  8. Hold the molded hose (276206 or GM103656) in place and cut to fit if necessary.
  9. Install the shorter heat shield (GM17809) over the molded hose and secure with a cable tie.
  10. Connect the molded hose to the hose connector and secure with a hose clamp (X-426-12 or GM103203).
  11. Connect the other end of the hose to the block heater outlet and secure with a hose clamp (X-426-12 or GM103203).
  12. Install the longer heat shield (GM23718) over the inlet hose (X-312-53 or X-312-47) and secure with a cable tie.
  13. Connect the hose to the block heater inlet with a hose clamp (X-426-12); route the hose under the engine.
  14. Secure the hang tag (279047) to the power cord.
  15. Open the two block heater shutoff valves and, after the block heater is full, add approximately 0.6 L (0.2 gal) coolant to the cooling system.

Tools required

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

Specs & values

  • Coolant solution of 50% ethylene glycol

Full service-parts list: Kohler 38RCL →, Kohler 48RCL →, Kohler 48RCLB →, Kohler 60RCL →, Kohler 60RCLA →

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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