Cranks but will not kick over

mozfoz · Apr 18, 2011

I am a long time reader, first time poster. Thank you for the time you take to help others. Heres my dilemma: I have a CC 2130 w/12 hp Kohler Command engine. I have what I'll call a starting problem. Engine does one of 3 things when starting: #1 - engine starts no problem and runs fine, #2 - engine start rough, blows a little blue smoke and then runs ok, then it may or may not die, and restart or #3 - engine cranks, but will not start. After sitting for a undetermined period, it may or may not restart.

Its #3 that has me really frustrated. I have little knowledge beyond basics. I thought it may have been a fuel issue, so I cleaned the entire system and installed a new carb, filter and plug, but have the same issues as before. Could it be an electrical or timing issue?

Egon · Apr 18, 2011

Is there a capacitor in the ignition system some where?

mozfoz · Apr 18, 2011

I looked in the on-line parts diagrams. Only referenced a module and rectifier-regulator.

Egon · Apr 18, 2011

Okay; again shows I'm way behind.

SandburRanch · Apr 18, 2011

I don't own a Kohler but as a test for #3 try disconnecting the mag (magneto) kill wire. I can't tell you where it is on your engine for sure but every small engine has one. Maybe Kohler people will help there. If there is still no fire at the spark plug it points to the kill wire from that connection to the mag being grounded or possibly a bad mag.

Or I could be way behind like Egon.

OldMachinist · Apr 18, 2011

The ignition module ground wire is yellow. There's a connector on the side of the engine where you can disconnect it. The next time it refuses to start unplug the connector and try to start it. Be careful if it starts because the only way you can kill it is to reconnect the yellow wire.
If it does start then ignition module is likely good and the problem is in the wiring or switches(ignition, seat, brake and PTO). Look for any where the yellow wire might be rubbed thru and is grounding out. The yellow wire or wires run to the seat, brake, PTO and ignition switches. Any one of these switches could be intermitently faulty. There could also be crud built up at the brake or seat switch not allowing it to function properly. When it refusing to start try working each switch on at a time to see if it helps. I hope all this doesn't sound too confusing but problems like this can be difficult to figure out.

mozfoz · Apr 21, 2011

I could not find the yellow wire from the module. I need to dissassmble the cover plates to get to it. All the other wire are fine, as is the grounding. Definitely appears to be a lack of spark.