Kohler — Oil Change Procedure

Maintenance · Lubrication system

From a Kohler operator's manual covering: 12RES, 12TRES, 17RES, 18RES, 18TRES, 8.5RES. Check it applies to your exact model before use.

Applies to: Kohler 12RES, Kohler 12TRES, Kohler 17RES, Kohler 18RES, Kohler 18TRES, Kohler 8.5RES, Kohler CH640 engine, Kohler CH 740 engine, Kohler CH 980 engine

Procedure

1. Place generator set master switch in the OFF position.
2. Disconnect power to the battery charger.
3. Disconnect engine starting battery, negative (-) lead first.
4. Remove housing side panel; clean around dipstick and oil fill cap.
5. Remove oil drain hose from retaining clip; remove cap and lower hose into collection container.
6. Open the oil drain valve on the engine.
7. Remove dipstick and oil fill cap; allow engine oil to drain completely.
8. Close drain valve; replace hose cap and return hose to retaining clip; replace dipstick.
9. Clean area around oil filter; remove filter by rotating counterclockwise with an oil filter wrench.
10. Clean gasket sealing surface of the oil filter adapter.
11. Apply a light coat of clean oil to the rubber seal of the new oil filter and install it.
12. Fill engine to the F mark on the dipstick (8.5/12RES 1.9 L; 17/18RES 2.8 L).
13. Reinstall dipstick and oil fill cap.
14. Reconnect battery, negative (-) lead last; reconnect battery charger power.
15. Start and run for one minute; stop, wait 1 minute, recheck level and add oil to F mark; check for leaks and reinstall side panel.

Full service-parts list: Kohler 12RES →, Kohler 12TRES →, Kohler 17RES →, Kohler 18RES →, Kohler 18TRES →, Kohler 8.5RES →

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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