Kohler 14/20RESA User Manual (English)

Other manuals for Kohler 14/20RESA

Questions and Answers:

M
Michael DudleyJul 29, 2025
How to fix no AC output on my Kohler Portable Generator?
- J
  Jeffrey AndersonJul 29, 2025
  If your Kohler Portable Generator has no AC output, check if the line circuit breaker is in the OFF position and switch it to the ON position. Also, reduce the load on the generator if the circuit breaker is tripping due to an overload. If the line circuit breaker is tripping because of a short circuit or if the auxiliary winding circuit breaker tripped, contact an authorized Kohler distributor/dealer for service. If the auxiliary winding circuit breaker trips repeatedly after you reset it (it is located in the controller’s service access area), contact an authorized Kohler distributor/dealer for service.
J
Jennifer BurtonAug 2, 2025
What to do if my Kohler 14/20RESA Portable Generator cranks but won't start?
- R
  ronald97Aug 2, 2025
  If your Kohler Portable Generator cranks but doesn't start, starts hard, lacks power, or operates erratically, try the following: * Clean and/or replace the air cleaner. * Recharge or replace the battery if it's weak or dead. * Clean and tighten the battery connections if they are poor. * Check the spark plug wires to ensure they are properly connected. * Check for oil leaks and add oil if the level is low. * Check the fuel supply and valves to ensure sufficient fuel pressure. If these steps don't resolve the issue, contact an authorized Kohler distributor/dealer, as it may indicate an engine malfunction.
A
Amy OrtegaAug 11, 2025
How to troubleshoot a Kohler 14/20RESA that won't crank?
- G
  greenebrittanyAug 11, 2025
  If your Kohler Portable Generator doesn't crank, the following could be the reasons: * A weak or dead battery: Recharge or replace the battery. * Reversed or poor battery connections: Check the connections. * A fault shutdown: Check the controller display for fault messages, correct the fault condition, and reset the controller. * The generator set being in the OFF mode: Press the RUN button to start the engine or press AUTO to allow remote starting.
S
Scott DavisAug 15, 2025
What causes low output voltage on my Kohler 14/20RESA?
- F
  fgibbsAug 16, 2025
  Low output or excessive voltage drop in your Kohler Portable Generator is often caused by the generator set being overloaded. Reduce the load to resolve this issue.
T
Tracy RichmondAug 20, 2025
Why is the controller display off on my Kohler Portable Generator?
- C
  crogersAug 20, 2025
  The controller display on your Kohler Portable Generator might be off due to low or no battery voltage. Check the connections and the generator set battery.
L
Laura DanielsAug 25, 2025
Why is the backlight off on my Kohler 14/20RESA Portable Generator's controller display?
- M
  Marissa PerezAug 25, 2025
  The backlight on the controller display of your Kohler Portable Generator turns off after about 1 minute of inactivity. The backlight will turn on when a button is pressed or the generator set starts.

Kohler 14/20RESA Specifications

General

Model	14/20RESA
Power Output (LP)	14 kW
Power Output (NG)	20 kW
Voltage	120/240V
Frequency	60 Hz
Engine Displacement	999cc
Fuel Type	Natural Gas
AC Rated Output Running Watts (LPG)	14000 W
AC Rated Output Running Watts (Natural Gas)	20000 W
Fuel Tank Capacity	N/A (LPG/Natural Gas)
Phase	Single

Summary

Product Identification

Generator Set Identification

Record product identification numbers for service parts and future reference.

Controller and Engine Identification

Record controller and engine details from nameplate and documentation for service.

Safety Precautions and Instructions

Accidental Starting Safety

Procedures to prevent accidental generator set startup during maintenance.

Battery Safety Precautions

Warnings and procedures for handling battery acid, gases, and short circuits.

Engine Fire and Exhaust Hazards

Precautions regarding engine backfire, flash fire, and carbon monoxide from exhaust.

Fuel System and Noise Hazards

Safety guidelines for fuel systems and protection from hazardous noise.

Electrical and Moving Parts Hazards

Warnings about hazardous voltage, moving parts, and electrical safety.

Heavy Equipment Lifting Safety

Guidelines for safe lifting of the generator set using appropriate methods.

Introduction to Generator Sets

Manual Scope and Related Literature

Overview of the manual's content and list of related documentation for generator sets.

Generator Set Details

Nameplate Information

Illustration and explanation of the generator set nameplate details.

Emission Control Information

Details on engine emission control systems and compliance periods.

Service Assistance

Section 1 Descriptions and Service Views

Introduction to Generator Set Components

Overview of the generator set specifications and component descriptions.

Engine Features and Enclosure

Details on the four-cycle engine and the composite generator set enclosure.

Alternator and Transfer Switch

Description of the PowerBoost voltage regulation and transfer switch interface.

Controllers RDC2 and DC2

Introduction to the RDC2 and DC2 controllers for RESA/RESAL models.

RDC2 Controller Features

Detailed features of the RDC2 controller including keypad, display, and functions.

DC2 Controller Features

Detailed features of the DC2 controller including keypad, display, and functions.

Optional Accessories

Description of optional accessories like Carburetor Heater, OnCue, PIM, and LCM.

Service Views Diagram

Visual representation of generator set service points and components.

Section 2 Generator Set Operation

Prestart Checklist

Essential checks before starting the generator set for safe and reliable operation.

Generator Set Exercising

Procedures and importance of weekly exercising for engine and alternator maintenance.

Generator Set Operation Modes

Covers local, automatic, and remote starting/stopping, crank cycles, and cooldown.

Fault Handling and Messages

Explains how the controller displays warnings and shutdowns, and how to identify faults.

Exercise Modes and Diagnostics

Details on unloaded cycle exercise, system diagnostics, and full-speed exercise.

Fault Messages and ATS Errors

Lists common fault messages, warnings, shutdowns, and ATS communication errors.

Resetting the Controller After a Fault

Step-by-step instructions for clearing faults and resetting the RDC2 and DC2 controllers.

Section 3 RDC2 Controller Operation

RDC2 Controller Overview

Introduction to the RDC2 controller and its system components.

RDC2 Controls and Indicators

Identification and function of RDC2 controller interface elements like buttons and LEDs.

RDC2 Controller Keypad Functions

Explanation of the RDC2 controller's pushbutton operations and their functions.

RDC2 LED Indicator Meanings

Description of the status indicated by the RDC2 controller's LED indicators.

RDC2 LCD Display Information

How the RDC2 LCD displays system status, including autopaging and fault messages.

Controller Power and Battery Charging

Information on how the RDC2 controller is powered and its built-in battery charging system.

Changing Controller Settings

Procedure for modifying RDC2 controller settings like date, time, and exerciser.

Setting and Managing the Exerciser

Instructions for setting the weekly or bi-weekly exercise schedule for the RDC2 controller.

RDC2 Controller Menu Navigation

Guide to navigating the RDC2 controller's menu structure and options.

Main Menu Overview

Explanation of the RDC2 main menu and how to move between options.

Overview Menu Display

Details of the information presented in the RDC2 Overview menu.

Engine Metering Menu

Displays engine status information such as speed, oil pressure, and temperature.

Generator Metering Menu

Shows generator voltage and frequency readings.

Voltage Calibration Procedure

Instructions for calibrating generator voltage readings, with safety warnings.

Generator Set Information Menu

Displays generator set model, serial numbers, and controller information.

Genset Run Time and Maintenance

Shows engine runtime, starts, and estimated next maintenance intervals.

Genset System Menu Settings

Configuration options for system voltage, frequency, phase, exerciser, and display contrast.

ATS Status Menu

Displays status of the Model RXT transfer switch and source information.

ATS Configuration Menu

Allows checking and changing Model RXT transfer switch system settings and time delays.

Date and Time Menu Settings

Procedures for setting the date, time, and time format on the RDC2 controller.

Networking Information Menus

Accesses submenus for network and RBUS communication settings for OnCue and remote devices.

Networking Status Submenu

Displays current network status, IP parameters, and OnCue connectivity.

Networking Configuration and OnCue Password

Settings for network configuration, DHCP, and resetting the OnCue password.

RBUS Information Menu

Provides information on modules connected via RBUS protocol, including PIM and LCM.

Remote Devices Submenu

Checks the status, serial numbers, and communication of remote devices like PIM and LCM.

PIM Status Menu

Displays the status of inputs and outputs connected to the Programmable Interface Module (PIM).

LCM Menus and Testing

Shows Load Control Module (LCM) status, inputs, outputs, and allows testing of output relays.

Event Log Viewing

Procedures for viewing controller faults, notices, and event history.

Section 4 DC2 Controller Operation

DC2 Controller Overview

Introduction to the DC2 controller and its system components for RESAL models.

DC2 Controls and Indicators

Identification and function of DC2 controller interface elements including buttons and LEDs.

DC2 Controller Keypad Functions

Explanation of the DC2 controller's pushbutton operations: RUN, OFF, AUTO, EXERCISE.

DC2 LED Indicator Meanings

Description of the status indicated by the DC2 controller's RUN, OFF, and AUTO LEDs.

DC2 LCD Display Information

How the DC2 LCD displays system status, including generator running and standby modes.

DC2 Controller Power and Charging

Information on DC2 controller power source and its built-in battery charging system.

DC2 Exercise Modes and Setup

Instructions for setting weekly exercise modes (unloaded/loaded) for the DC2 controller.

DC2 Exerciser Reset

Procedure to reset the DC2 exerciser to a different day and time.

DC2 Event Log Viewing

How to view the event log on the DC2 controller, showing faults and notices.

DC2 Maintenance Timer Reset

Steps to reset the maintenance timer on the DC2 controller after service tasks.

DC2 OnCue Password Setup

Procedure for setting the OnCue password for the DC2 controller.

Section 5 Scheduled Maintenance

Scheduled Maintenance Overview

Importance of scheduled maintenance and how to use controller display for intervals.

Service Schedule: 14RESA/RESAL Models

Detailed maintenance schedule for 14RESA/RESAL models, listing components and frequencies.

Service Schedule: 20RESA/RESAL Models

Detailed maintenance schedule for 20RESA/RESAL models, listing components and frequencies.

Lubrication System Maintenance

Procedures for checking oil level, changing oil, and replacing the oil filter.

Maintenance Timer Reset Procedures

Specific steps to reset the maintenance timer for RDC2 and DC2 controllers.

Oil Cooler Maintenance

Instructions for inspecting and cleaning the oil cooler on 20RESA/RESAL models.

Spark Plug Service

Steps for checking, adjusting, and replacing spark plugs for optimal engine performance.

Air Cleaner Service for 14RESA/RESAL

Maintenance for the air cleaner system, including precleaner and paper element on 14RESA/RESAL models.

Air Cleaner Service for 20RESA/RESAL

Maintenance for the air cleaner system on 20RESA/RESAL models, including paper element replacement.

Cooling System Maintenance

Ensuring proper airflow to prevent overheating and generator damage.

Exhaust System Maintenance

Inspecting the exhaust system for leaks, corrosion, and obstructions.

Battery Maintenance and Connection

Guidelines for battery maintenance, cleaning terminals, and proper connection.

Generator Set Storage Procedure

Steps for preparing the generator set for extended storage, including lubrication and fuel systems.

Section 6 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Introduction and Charts

Guidance on using troubleshooting charts to diagnose and correct common problems.

Understanding Fault Messages

How to interpret fault messages displayed by the RDC2/DC2 controller for diagnostics.

Circuit Protection Systems

Information on internal controller protection, line circuit breakers, and auxiliary winding breakers.

Controller Service Access

Location of service access for circuit breakers and USB port for controller settings.

General Troubleshooting Chart

A chart listing common problems, possible causes, and corrective actions for troubleshooting.

Appendix A Abbreviations

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