So I have an older cub cadet model 1812 with a kohler magnum 18 engine. I jus recently had the engine out to replace an ignition coil (caution when replacing key switch do not put 12v to the yellow wire! It's a 115 dollar mistake!). I get it all back together and try to start it and it floods out. So I yank the carb off to find the float bowl is stuck. I free it, blast the carb with some carb cleaner put it back on and it's fine. Tractor sits overnight and I mow the next morning. No problems. I take a 2 hour break go back out and it's flooded again. Any ideas what could be goin on here?
Float keeps sticking on kohler m18
- Thread starter Joe2844
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oldnslo
Super Member
Sounds like the float needle and seat are starting to weep. The needle and seat get worn a little over time and causes this. These items can be replaced. You will need the engine model and code / spec number to order the correct parts.
ROy
tmajor
Platinum Member
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- Oct 9, 2007
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- Location
- NE PA
- Tractor
- 2010 MF 1529, Woods ZTR MZ1952, National Mower sickle bar circa 1963
I think, ethanol gas is going to be causing a lot of similar problems. I just had to replace the fuel filter on my ZTR mower .. I couldn't even blow through it. The tractor has been acting a little strange, as well.
Beyond the other good advice you got, best check the crankcase oil in that engine for raw fuel contamination - pull and smell the dipstick. If gas smell present, change oil and filter before running engine again. diluted oil will not adequately lube engine, will soon fail.
If fuel tank is above carb (gravity feed) spend a few bucks, install a manual in-line fuel shutoff valve, use it. Cheap insurance to prevent future problems.
Spot on, I repair a lot of commercial mowers and install shutoffs on every one, seems trailering and going over bumps has a way of doing things to needle valve carburetors. Your Kohler may also have picked up a small amount of debris that is causing the float to stick, try removing the needle and cleaning it with solvent and finish by hand polishing it with very mild rubbing compound and a soft clean cloth.....I have seen floats cleaned with sandpaper...didn't end well.
Thanks for the advice. My tractor has a shut off valve. I already changed the oil due to fuel leaking into crankcase. I picked up a new float($15) and a rebuild kit ($30) that has a new needle. Gonna give that a try. And it is gravity fed to a mechanical fuel pump. I'm also gonna install new fuel line hose and filter and start using ethanol free fuel. Thankfully a local gas station offers it.