redone 45 #1 Posted August 28, 2021 Kohler engine 341 was built with factory balance gears, this motor was rebuilt in 1999. This engine dose not run smoothly anymore. Found that those gears were left out, due to the inexperience of the builder. Whom in this group can forward the specs for installing these gears. Thank you Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
pfrederi 17,147 #2 Posted August 28, 2021 The K Series Service manual (you can download from the manuals section). Details two methods. One uses a tool and is easy. one doesn't need the special tool but is more complex.... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kpinnc 10,767 #3 Posted August 28, 2021 3 hours ago, redone said: Found that those gears were left out, due to the inexperience of the builder. I've got plenty of experience with these engines, and it tells me to remove them. The balance "effect" of them is marginal at best. The opposite end of the spectrum is that they are a weak link in a bulletproof and time tested design. When they fail, they typically take everything in the block with them. Properly cleaned up though, they do make good paperweights. They are not completely useless. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
pacer 3,159 #4 Posted August 28, 2021 I believe you will find that the majority of members here vote to leave them out. There is good evidence for 2 results re them, Leave them and they will eventually "grenade" and do extensive damage, or pull/leave them out and and will likely not see a difference .... and, no "grenade"! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
953 nut 51,769 #5 Posted August 28, 2021 If you decide to install the balance gears be sure to get the installation kit with new bearings. Bearing failure is what turns them into grenades. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bill D 1,602 #6 Posted August 29, 2021 (edited) Leave them out!!! Send your crank to @Greentoredto be balanced. FYI, John Deere spec engines don't use balance gears. If you see John Deere blocks on ebay you'll notice there aren't any stub shafts for the balance gears in the block. Edited August 29, 2021 by Bill D 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites