K-161 Carb adjustments

[Greg Parnell 6]

This is my carb on the K-161.

I followed the operation manual instructions when adjusting the idle and main screws and expected to find a sweet spot where when I turned the screws in and out just a little I would hear a definate change in the engines RMA at low and WOT. but... at both throttle settings I have to almost turn the screws almost all the way in and almost out all the way to get an RMP change, not a small turn sweet spot like I expected. Is this normal?

Do I just set both screws half way between all the way in and all the way out?

The engine seems to run good no matter where the screws are adjusted as long as they are not at the extremes.

Thanks for the help!

[sorekiwi 761]

My rule of thumb on any carb is 1 1/2 to 2 turns out from seated. I dont remember what the Kohler manual says, but its somewhere around there.

I usually find that the sweet spot is within 1/2 a turn of this position. If its not there, I usually remove the needle and spray carb clean through the hole, followed by compressed air.

If that doesnt work, I pull it off, diassemble and soak it in the can of carb clean.

[VinsRJ 723]

According to my Kohler manual: K161 float is to be set at 11/64" plus or minus 1/32". The main jet (top) is to be turned until the needle seats and then backed out 2 turns. The idle jet (side) is to be seated and then backed out 1 1/2 turns.

From the way that carb looks (no offense ) I would give it a tear down and a good cleaning inside and out. Kits for Carter N's are cheap. Remember do not put any force on the adjustment screws when seating them.

[rick 246]

To add to Mike's advice, be sure you check the holes in the carburetor body just above where the bowl retaining screw goes. I have found them plugged with debris, making it necessary to use a drill bit the size of the hole to clean the gunk out. Use the bit with your fingers, not your portable drill !