Cub Cadet 1863 Question?

leftybob · Nov 20, 2006

Can anyone tell me if the 18 HP Kohler Command engine has a compression release in the engine? When the choke is pulled out the engine gets harder to crank almost like a out of time mode. After it finally starts witha lot of cranking it runs fine.

TractorLarry · Nov 20, 2006

My 1864 does this sometimes too, but it's got a 700CCA battery in it so it gets through it

-Larry

leftybob said:
Can anyone tell me if the 18 HP Kohler Command engine has a compression release in the engine? When the choke is pulled out the engine gets harder to crank almost like a out of time mode. After it finally starts witha lot of cranking it runs fine.

Dave01 · Nov 22, 2006

No compression release on the engine. Any engine will sound and crank a bit different when choked or at different throttle settings, not sure exactly why this is. If the starter labors just because the choke is out you either have a bad starter (not likely) or a bad battery. How old is the battery, and is it sized right for the tractor?

leftybob · Nov 22, 2006

The battery had been changed to an auto type with top posts before I bought the tractor so it has more cranking power than a lawn & garden battery. It cranks good until the choke is applied. I tried to close the choke about half and it still slows down the cranking.

Bob_Bainbridge · Nov 22, 2006

Theoretically, closing the throttle or the choke increases the engine vacuum and requires a little more cranking power, but I'm surprised it's enough to notice.

Bob B.

Fordlords · Nov 22, 2006

The Command engines do have a compression release system. From what I understand it is mounted on the camshaft and is a spring loaded rod that holds one of the exhaust valves open a little bit during cranking. I have heard of a few instances where these have broke or worn and that sounds like your case.

-Fordlords-