Timing off?

[FairportCub]

I have an CC1862 with a Kohler motor. Yesterday when I tried to start it, it would backfire severely when it would try to start. It sounded like a 12 gage going off. Is this a timing problem? How do I adjust it?

 

[OhioGuy]

I don't believe there is a timing adjustment on the Kohler Magnum. It uses an ignition module mounted next to the flywheel, it's fixed. You might be losing spark intermittently and when it fires it's igniting that unburned fuel or maybe lost spark on one side.

I have a couple of cheap Harbor freight spark indicators that work great for these kind of problems. Hook em up inline with the spark plug, tells you immediately if it's a spark problem.

This module has a ground through the ignition switch, it grounds to kill spark.

The control for that is entering the same location as the plug wire through the sheet metal on the engine case.

I've replaced two of those module in 20 years, hope it's something simpler like a carb issue!

Curt

 

[FairportCub]

It's a Kohler Cammander. Does that make a difference?

Thanks for the fast reply!

 

[OhioGuy]

Looks like the Command uses the same ignition modules.
Here's a link to the service manual, it has troubleshooting.

http://www.kohlerengines.com/common/resources/tp_2428_b.pdf

I believe that tractor originally had a 18HP Magnum, it must have ben replaced?

Good luck

 

[FairportCub]

Wow! Thanks alot. That manual has it all.

It is the original engine. 18HP Kohler Commander.

 

[JTKub]

If the flywheel key sheared partially or is deformed, you'd have an ignition timing issue. Hopefully it's just a fouled plug.