12 hp Kohler 1,014 #1 Posted March 29, 2017 I have a wheel horse c-81 with an 8 hp kohler k181s engine. Today I was driving it and parked it but when I went it start it back up the starter moter wouldn't engage with the fly wheel because it got stuck. I figured out that if I just gave the back of the gear a tap it would get un stuck but I had to do that every time I went to start it, does any one have any ideas of why it's getting stuck or what's it's getting stuck on. I'm going to try to take it apart and look at it this weekend. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 14,863 #2 Posted March 29, 2017 Sometimes the mounting bolts can loosen and the starter can become misaligned. Also, the Bendix can get gummed up. Take the starter off and clean the Bendix assembly. When reinstalling the starter, be sure that it is properly aligned. 4 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
12 hp Kohler 1,014 #3 Posted March 29, 2017 Ok will do, i will let you know if it works 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WHX?? 46,681 #4 Posted March 29, 2017 Glad to see you are a supporter 12hp .....what kind of lube is best Bob? @rmaynard Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jerry77 1,218 #5 Posted March 29, 2017 58 minutes ago, rmaynard said: Take the starter off and clean the Bendix assembly White lube works great on the shaft - had a lot of trouble with a 14h kohler - finally used white lube on it and problem went away..just my 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 14,863 #6 Posted March 29, 2017 The following was copied directly from the Kohler service manual: 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
pfrederi 17,120 #7 Posted March 29, 2017 10 hours ago, rmaynard said: The following was copied directly from the Kohler service manual: I bought a tube from my WH parts place and have used it on an overhaul No problem with it it was about $5...but then i do not have many starter problems. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Britton Baker 4 #8 Posted March 29, 2017 I had this prroblem on my grandpas Commando 800 we took the starter off and cleaned and it went right back to wotking like they said. Just be sure to wacth the gear mesh. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oliver2-44 8,834 #9 Posted March 29, 2017 Hopefully a cleaning and grease will fit it. However, I had one that would stick even after cleaning and greasing, and the front bushing had work excessively. I couldn't find a replacement bushing, but a electric motor/starter repair shop replaced it for me. You may now be able to find one on ebay if needed. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
12 hp Kohler 1,014 #10 Posted March 29, 2017 Ok, thanks for all the info, I will see what works this weekend when I take it apart Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
12 hp Kohler 1,014 #11 Posted April 3, 2017 I went to start up the c-81 today and the starter problem went away, so I just worked on the 753 instead Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
