How to Rebuild a Kohler KT17

Kohler is a well-known manufacturer of small engines. While small engines are designed for long-term use, they eventually require cleaning or rebuilding. A professional shop can rebuild the engine, but the cost is often high. Because small engines are simple in design, they can be easily worked on. Use a few professional techniques to clean and rebuild a Kohler KT17, saving the cost of a trip to the repair shop.

Socket set
Plastic bag
Screwdrivers
Compressed air
Rags
Spark plug
Plastic container
Cotton swabs
Rubbing alcohol
Oil

Instructions

- 1
  
  Make sure the socket fits tightly on the mounting bolt.
  
  Remove the engine. The Kohler KT17 is attached to its frame with a set of mounting bolts, found on the bottom of the engine. Separate the fuel line from the engine. Use a socket of the appropriate size to loosen the mounting bolts. Once the bolts are loosened, remove them and place them in a plastic bag. Carefully lift the engine off its mount and place it on a work bench.
- 2
  Remove and clean the air intake screen. This screen is on the front of the Kohler KT17. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws holding the screen in place. Remove the screen and blow out both the screen and intake chamber with compressed air.
- 3
  Clean the air filter. The filter is on the top of the Kohler KT17. Loosen the screws that hold the filter’s cover in place. Remove the cover to access the filter. Gently lift the filter out. Use compressed air to blow all dirt and debris from the filter. Place the filter back in its housing.
- 4
  Remove and replace the spark plug. Using a socket designed for spark plugs, remove the old spark plug. Blow out the plug’s chamber with compressed air. Wipe off any remaining debris from the inside of the chamber with a rag. Replace the spark plug.
- 5
  Remove and replace the spark plug. Using a socket designed for spark plugs, remove the old spark plug. Blow out the plug’s chamber with compressed air. Wipe off any remaining debris from the inside of the chamber. Replace the spark plug.
- 6
  
  Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the starter screws.
  
  Access the electric starter. The electric starter is on the bottom right-hand side of the engine. Dirt and debris build up over time, causing the motor to fail. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the starter cover. Place the screws in a plastic bag.
- 7
  Clean the starter. Use compressed air to blow out the starter. Dip the tip of a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol, squeezing off the excess liquid. Gently clean the wiring with the swab, removing any built-up dirt or debris. Replace the cover and mounting screws.
- 8
  Examine the engine’s housing. Over time, vibrations cause the engine’s housing to loosen up. Because the engine gets hot, the housing can become warped, causing stress on the internal components. Using the appropriate socket wrench, tighten the cooling fin’s mounting bolts. If any components of the outer casing are damaged, they will have to be replaced.
- 9
  Replace the oil. Add the appropriate grade oil to the depleted oil tank. Reconnect the fuel line. Start the engine and allow it to run for 10 minutes prior to use.

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