skoot 0 #1 Posted February 12, 2012 I have a 1968 Toro Suburban with a 10hp Kohler k241 and it won't idle, it throttles up good but it just won't idle. I've taken the carb apart cleaned and adjusted the float but it still won't idle. I haven't tried adjusting the points because I don't know the correct gap. I would appreciate a steer in the right direction ! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,289 #2 Posted February 12, 2012 There are many things that can cause a K-241 to have idle problems. As far as the points are concerned, an initial setting of .020 is recommended. Pull both of the adjustment screws from the carburetor and clean them thoroughly. The main jet screw is the long one on the top, and it has to be cleaned both inside and out. After cleaning, reinsert them and do your initial adjustment of 2 to 2-1/2 turns. Adjust the main jet first, then adjust the idle screw. If there is play in the throttle shaft, that will also prevent smooth idling. Check also to be sure that your bolts that mount the carburetor to the engine are tight, and that the gasket it not worn. Read the appropriate sections of the Kohler engine manual for specifics on timing, carburetor adjustments, valve gaps etc. If you don't have a manual, one can be downloaded from Kohler. http://www.kohlereng...pdf/tp_2379.pdf Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skoot 0 #3 Posted February 12, 2012 what is the idle shaft ?? I'm new to working on this engine but know basic stuff Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,289 #4 Posted February 12, 2012 Did you mean 'throttle shaft'? That is the shaft that sticks up out of the top of the carburetor. It has the throttle plate attached to it inside of the carb. There should be little or no side to side movement. It is has movement, air can be sucked down into the carb and cause erratic idle. Kits are available to fix it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skoot 0 #5 Posted February 12, 2012 yes, I meant throttle shaft I check it and there is little to no play. I also cleaned the adjustment screws and readjusted them, it seems to run slightly better but it will get to a low idle ( like an old hit n miss motor) spit sputter and backfire then idle up on it's own or die, it just doesn't want to idle nice and even. could it be the points not gaped correctly ??? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,289 #6 Posted February 12, 2012 That is possible, but I would be more inclined to think it is your main jet. The main jet is the adjustment needle that goes into the top. It is long, and has multiple small holes in it. Each of those holes need to be clean. Also, the tube is hollow from top to bottom. The entire length of the inside of the tube needs to be clean. I would suggest a good overnight soak in carburetor cleaner. Then compressed air to clean it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Martin 2,133 #7 Posted February 12, 2012 bobs right, give that carb a good soak and get it clean. then back together with a rebuild kit, adjust the points to .020 and see how it runs Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skoot 0 #8 Posted February 12, 2012 Bob, I noticed when adjusting the jets the one on top does have an effect to how it runs but the lower one has no effect the way it runs.. I can turn it all the way in and all the way out and there's no change on how it runs. can I get a carb kit for it at like Tractor Supply or a Dealer ?? I did set the points to .020 and it would rev up to a very high rpm like it was being held back Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rmaynard 16,289 #9 Posted February 12, 2012 The main jet (top) has a big effect on how the idle jet works. If the main jet is even partially clogged, you won't get much adjustment out of the idle, even though you will be able to adjust the high speed. I would suggest buying a can of Berryman's carb soak at Walmart for about $19.00. Remove the carb, take the bowl off, remove the float, float valve, and needle valves, put it all in the basket and soak it for 24 hours. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skoot 0 #10 Posted February 12, 2012 Thank you ! I'll let you know what happens Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kelly 1,033 #11 Posted February 12, 2012 You also said it runs like a hit and miss engine, are you trying to idle it to low? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
specialwheelhorse 174 #12 Posted March 6, 2012 I Wondered that as well Kelly. We know that;s a good way to kill a good engine. Jim in Texas Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tunahead72 2,543 #13 Posted March 6, 2012 Good point about the idle speed, guys. It should be around 1000-1200 RPM or so, which may sound high but is actually necessary to ensure proper lubrication and air movement around the engine. Just so we're all on the same page, there's an update to this thread here: Turns out there is some play in the throttle shaft, and one of the needles is clogged. Skoot, you still with us here? :) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
