Kohler — Storage Procedure (three months or longer)
Maintenance · Generator set
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
Before you start
- Perform the storage procedure before removing the generator set from service for three months or longer.
- Perform battery storage last.
Procedure
- Lubricating system: run set to operating temperature (about 15 minutes), stop, drain warm oil, refill with oil, run a few minutes, stop.
- Fuel system: start set, shut off gas supply while running, run until engine stops, place master switch in OFF/RESET.
- Cylinder lubrication: remove spark plugs, pour one tablespoon of engine oil into each spark plug hole, install plugs and ground leads.
- Toggle the master switch to crank the engine two or three revolutions to lubricate the cylinders.
- Exterior preparation: clean exterior, seal engine openings with nonabsorbent tape, mask electrical contact areas, apply light oil film over unpainted metal.
- Battery: place master switch in OFF/RESET, disconnect battery negative lead first, clean battery, store in warm dry location, connect to float/equalize charger or charge monthly.
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.