Kohler — Valve Service (Valve-Tappet Clearance)
Adjustments · Cylinder Head Valves
From a Kohler operator's manual covering: 4CFKM, 4CFKM/CFKMR, 4CKM, 4CKM/CKMR, 5CKM, 5CKM/CKMR, TP-5393. Check it applies to your exact model before use.
Applies to: Kohler 4 and 5 kW, Kohler 4CFKM, Kohler 4CKM, Kohler 5CKM, Kohler M18 / M20 engine, Kohler M18 engine, Kohler M20 engine
Before you start
- Piston must be at top dead center (TDC) of the compression stroke to measure clearance.
Procedure
- Rotate the flywheel and look into the valve boxes; measure clearance for the cylinder in which no movement was observed using a flat feeler gauge.
- Rotate the flywheel 360° and measure the valve-to-tappet clearance for the remaining cylinder.
- If clearance is too small or too large, remove generator set and take to an authorized Kohler service dealer.
Tools required
- flat feeler gauge Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Intake 0.003-0.006 in. (0.076-0.152 mm)
- Exhaust 0.011-0 FridayParts $71.26.014 in. (0.279-0.355 mm)
Full service-parts list: Kohler 4 and 5 kW →, Kohler 4CFKM →, Kohler 4CKM →, Kohler 5CKM →
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.