1.4
Section 1
Safety and General Information
Oil Recommendations
Using the proper type and weight of oil in the
crankcase is extremely important. So is checking oil
daily and changing oil regularly. Failure to use the
correct oil, or using dirty oil, causes premature engine
wear and failure.
Oil Type
Use high-quality detergent oil of
API (American
Petroleum Institute) service class SG, SH, SJ, or
higher
. Select the viscosity based on the air
temperature at the time of operation as shown in the
following table.
NOTE:
Using other than service class SG, SH, SJ, or
higher oil or extending oil change intervals
longer than recommended can cause engine
damage.
NOTE:
Synthetic oils meeting the listed
classifications may be used with oil changes
performed at the recommended intervals.
However to allow piston rings to properly
seat, a new or rebuilt engine should be
operated for at least 50 hours using standard
petroleum based oil before switching to
synthetic oil.
A logo or symbol on oil containers identifies the API
service class and SAE viscosity grade. See Figure 1-3.
Fuel Recommendations
WARNING: Explosive Fuel!
Gasoline is extremely flammable and its vapors can explode if
ignited. Store gasoline only in approved containers, in well
ventilated, unoccupied buildings, away from sparks or flames.
Do not fill the fuel tank while the engine is hot or running,
since spilled fuel could ignite if it comes in contact with hot
parts or sparks from ignition. Do not start the engine near
spilled fuel. Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent.
General Recommendations
Purchase gasoline in small quantities and store in
clean, approved containers. A container with a
capacity of 2 gallons or less with a pouring spout is
recommended. Such a container is easier to handle
and helps eliminate spilling during refueling.
Do not use gasoline left over from the previous season,
to minimize gum deposits in your fuel system and to
ensure easy starting.
Do not add oil to the gasoline.
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Leave room for the fuel to
expand.
Fuel Type
For best results, use only clean, fresh, unleaded
gasoline with a pump sticker octane rating of 87 or
higher. In countries using the Research method, it
should be 90 octane minimum.
Unleaded gasoline is recommended, as it leaves less
combustion chamber deposits. Leaded gasoline may
be used in areas where unleaded is not available and
exhaust emissions are not regulated. Be aware
however, that the cylinder head will require more
frequent service.
Gasoline/Alcohol blends
Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded
gasoline by volume) is approved as a fuel for Kohler
engines. Other gasoline/alcohol blends are not
approved.
Gasoline/Ether blends
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded
gasoline blends (up to maximum of 15% MTBE by
volume) are approved as a fuel for Kohler engines.
Other gasoline/ether blends are not approved.
Figure 1-3. Oil Container Logo.
Refer to Section 6 Lubrication System for detailed oil
check, oil change, and oil filter procedures.
*Use of synthetic oil having 5W-20 or 5W-30 rating is
acceptable, up to 4°C (40°F).
**Synthetic oils will provide better starting in
extreme cold below 23°C (-10°F).
**
*