Question on Kohler k-181

[W9JAB 156]

:scratchead:

All the spec. sheets from Kohler rate this motor at 8 H.P. @ 3600 R.P.M. which is pretty standard for a small engine. However I have never see my tractor rev up to more than 1500 R.P.M. am I missing something?

Also is there any way to tap in an oil pressure gauge.

[VinsRJ 723]

How are you determining that the motor is running a max of 1500 RPM? If it is in fact running 1500 RPM maxed out then look to the governor adjustment. It maybe out of whack and not allowing wide open throttle (WOT).

K181's are a splash oil system, no pressure involved.

[W9JAB 156]

How are you determining that the motor is running a max of 1500 RPM?

I have a tiny tach on the motor.

[daemon2525 5]

Make sure that you have the correct model of tiny-tach.

They make two models, (actually more). One of them is for engines that fire every revolution and one for the K series that fire every other revolution.

If you are using the wrong one, then you could actually be turning 3000rpm.

This is an area that I am not 100% sure on, so someone correct me if I am wrong.

I believe that engines like a briggs 5hp have the point cam on the crankshaft so the thing fires every time around. The kohler K series has the point cam on the camshaft and closes the points every other round.

LOL,,, I can't beleive that I typed that... I am so unsure that I am correct that

I am embarrased to even have tried. Just check it out in case I am right,

you don't wanna blow her up!!!

[qd-16 14]

Tiny Tach specifically makes one of their tachs. for the kohler K-series, this is what I have on my k-181. It worked for about a year and then started going all over the place with it's readings. When I'm in the 2800-3000 rpm range, the tach. says I'm running 4500-5000 rpms! But the hour meter part works fine. Kind of a waste of $40 in my opinion.

[W9JAB 156]

:scratchead: Damm, Now ya got me thinking! (I hate when that happens) I'll have to break out my laser tachometer an see what is really going on. :hide: