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8
Section 8
Electrical System and Components
Section 8
Electrical System and Components
This section covers the operation, service, and repair of
the electrical system components. Systems and
components covered in this section are:
• Spark Plugs
• Battery and Charging System
• Electronic CD Ignition System (including SMART-
SPARK
™
on applicable models)
• Electric Starter
Spark Plugs
Engine misfire or starting problems are often caused by
a spark plug that has improper gap or is in poor
condition.
The engine is equipped with the following spark plugs:
Type: The standard spark plug is a Champion
®
RC12YC (Kohler Part No. 12 132 02-S). RFI
compliant engines use a Champion
®
XC12 YC
(Kohler 25 132 14-S) spark plug. A high-
performance spark plug, Champion
®
Platinum
3071 (used on Pro Series engines, Kohler Part
No. 25 132 12-S) is also available. Equivalent
alternate brand plugs can also be used.
Gap: 0.76 mm (0.030 in.)
Thread Size: 14 mm
Reach: 19.1 mm (3/4 in.)
Hex Size: 15.9 mm (5/8 in.)
Spark Plug Service
Remove the spark plugs after every 200 hours of
operation. Check their condition and either reset the
gap or replace with new plugs as necessary. To service
the plugs, perform the following steps:
1. Before removing a spark plug, clean the area
around the base of the plug to keep dirt and debris
out of the engine.
2. Remove the plug and check its condition. See
“Inspection” following this procedure. Replace the
plug if necessary.
NOTE: Do not clean spark plugs in a machine
using abrasive grit. Some grit could
remain in the spark plug and enter the
engine, causing extensive wear and
damage.
3. Check the gap using a wire feeler gauge. Adjust
the gap to 0.76 mm (0.030 in.) by carefully
bending the ground electrode. See Figure 8-1.
Figure 8-1. Servicing Spark Plug.
4. Reinstall the spark plug into the cylinder head
and torque to 24.4-29.8 N·m (18-22 ft. lb.).
Inspection
Inspect each spark plug as it is removed from the
cylinder head. The deposits on the tip are an
indication of the general condition of the piston rings,
valves, and carburetor.
Normal and fouled plugs are shown in the following
photos:
Wire Gauge
Ground
Electrode
Spark Plug
0.76 mm (0.030 in.) Gap