Kohler Command CH16 User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

C
coledustinAug 12, 2025
How to fix a Kohler Command CH16 Engine that cranks but won't start?
- M
  Maureen RobinsonAug 12, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine cranks but refuses to start, begin by checking if the fuel tank is empty and fill it if needed. Then, ensure the fuel shut-off valve is open. Inspect the fuel system for any dirt or water and clean it. Also, check for a clogged fuel line and clear it. Verify that the spark plug lead is connected and the key or kill switch is in the 'on' position. If these steps don't work, the spark plug, ignition module, or oil sending unit may be faulty and require replacement. Lastly, ensure the choke is closing properly.
H
haydenkellyAug 16, 2025
Why does my Kohler Command CH16 Engine start but not stay running?
- R
  Robert BakerAug 16, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine starts but doesn't keep running, first clear any restrictions from the fuel tank vent. Inspect the fuel system for dirt or water and clean it if necessary. Repair or replace any faulty choke or throttle controls/cables. Check and secure any loose wires or connections. If these steps don't resolve the issue, you may need to replace the cylinder head gasket, fuel pump, or carburetor.
M
Matthew RamirezAug 19, 2025
What to do if my Kohler Command CH16 Engine starts hard?
- T
  Tara ConnerAug 19, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine starts hard, make sure the hydrostatic transmission is in neutral. Inspect the fuel system for dirt or water, and clean if needed. Clear any clogged fuel lines. Check and secure any loose or faulty wires or connections. Repair or replace any faulty choke or throttle controls/cables. Replace the spark plug if faulty. Check the engine compression. Repair or replace the Automatic Compression Release (ACR) mechanism if it's faulty.
J
Joshua RandallAug 25, 2025
How to troubleshoot a Kohler Engine that will not crank?
- L
  Laura NelsonAug 25, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine will not crank, ensure the hydrostatic transmission is in neutral. Charge or replace the battery if it's discharged. Disengage the safety interlock switch. Check and secure any loose or faulty wires or connections. If these steps don't work, you may need to replace the key switch or ignition switch, or the electric starter/starter solenoid. Check the retractable starter engagement. Inspect and repair any seized internal engine components.
J
Julia WallerAug 27, 2025
Why does my Kohler Command CH16 Engine use an excessive amount of oil?
- T
  tdavisAug 27, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine uses an excessive amount of oil, ensure you are using the correct oil viscosity/type. Drain excess oil if the crankcase is overfilled. Check and clean the breather if it's clogged or improperly assembled. If the problem persists, you may need to replace worn or broken piston rings, repair or replace the cylinder bore, or replace worn valve stems or valve guides.
D
Dominic MayAug 31, 2025
What causes a Kohler Command CH16 to run but miss?
- D
  Daniel RobinsonAug 31, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine runs but misses, first inspect the fuel system for dirt or water and clean it. Reconnect the spark plug lead if it's disconnected. Check and secure any loose wires or connections. If the engine overheated, allow it to cool down. If the problem persists, replace the ignition module.
C
Chelsey DavisSep 3, 2025
How do I fix a Kohler Command CH16 that will not idle?
- G
  gilbertlopezSep 3, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine will not idle, clear any restrictions from the fuel tank cap vent. Inspect the fuel system for dirt or water and clean it. Replace the spark plug if faulty. Adjust the idle fuel adjusting needle and the idle speed adjusting screw. Check the engine compression. Clean or replace the carburetor if there's stale fuel and/or gum in it.
J
Joseph PittmanSep 7, 2025
What should I do if my Kohler Engine knocks?
- L
  Lauren McguireSep 7, 2025
  If your Kohler Engine knocks, reduce the engine load if it's excessive. Check and add crankcase oil to the proper level if it's low. Use the recommended fuel. Inspect and repair any internal wear or damage.

Kohler Command CH16 Specifications

General

Power Output	16 hp (11.9 kW) @ 3600 RPM
Compression Ratio	8.5:1
Fuel System	Carburetor
Cooling System	Air-cooled
Starting System	Recoil
Governor Type	Mechanical
Air Cleaner	Dual Element
Engine Type	OHV (Overhead Valve)
Fuel Type	Gasoline
Ignition System	Solid State
Emissions Compliance	EPA Phase 3

Summary

Section 1 Safety and General Information

Safety Precautions

General safety guidelines and warnings for engine operation and maintenance.

Engine Identification Numbers

Explains how to identify engine models using serial and specification numbers.

Oil Recommendations

Advises on proper oil type, viscosity, and importance of checking/changing oil.

Fuel Recommendations

Provides warnings and recommendations for gasoline types and handling.

Periodic Maintenance

Outlines maintenance tasks and their required frequency.

General Specifications

Lists technical specifications for various engine models, including power, bore, stroke, etc.

General Torque Values

Provides torque values for metric fasteners and oil drain plugs.

Section 2 Tools & Aids

Tools

Lists specific tools and their part numbers for engine service.

Special Tools You Can Make

Provides instructions for creating custom tools for engine service.

Section 3 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Guide

General guide to identifying and resolving engine problems.

Engine Will Not Crank

Lists common causes and solutions for an engine that won't crank.

Engine Runs But Misses

Lists common causes and solutions for an engine that runs unevenly.

Engine Overheats

Lists common causes and solutions for an overheating engine.

External Engine Inspection

Guidance on performing a thorough external inspection of the engine.

Cylinder Leakdown Test

Details how to perform a cylinder leakdown test and interpret results.

Section 4 Air Cleaner and Air Intake System

Air Cleaner

General overview of the air cleaner system components.

Paper Element Service

Instructions for replacing the paper air cleaner element.

Air Intake/Cooling System

Advises on maintaining cooling fins and air intake for proper cooling.

Section 5 Fuel System and Governor

Fuel System Components

Lists the main components of the fuel system.

Fuel Pump

General description and operation of the fuel pump.

Carburetors

Describes different carburetor types and their adjustments.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting guide for fuel system related issues affecting carburetors.

Governor

Overview of the centrifugal flyweight mechanical governor.

Section 6 Lubrication System

Check Oil Level

Step-by-step guide for checking the engine oil level.

Change Oil and Oil Filter

Procedures for changing engine oil and oil filter.

Section 7 Retractable Starter

Starter Removal

Steps for removing the retractable starter from the engine.

Rope Replacement

Instructions for replacing the starter rope.

Disassembly

Steps for disassembling the retractable starter.

Reassembly

Steps for reassembling the retractable starter.

Section 8 Electrical System and Components

Spark Plug

Information on spark plug types, gaps, and service intervals.

Battery

General information, maintenance, and warnings for the 12-volt battery.

Electronic Magneto Ignition System

Overview of the electronic magneto ignition system.

Troubleshooting CD Ignition Systems

Troubleshooting info for CD ignition systems, including kill lead load and SAM power.

Electric Starters

General information on electric starters, including operating notes.

Solenoid Test Procedure

General procedure for testing starter solenoids.

Section 9 Disassembly

Typical Disassembly Sequence

A suggested sequence for complete engine disassembly.

Remove Muffler

Steps for removing the muffler and related parts.

Remove Air Cleaner

Steps for removing the air cleaner assembly.

Remove Carburetor and Governor Lever

Steps for removing the carburetor and governor lever.

Remove Cylinder Head

Steps for removing the cylinder head.

Remove Crankshaft

Steps for removing the crankshaft.

Section 10 Inspection and Reconditioning

Camshaft

Inspection and service notes for the camshaft.

Crankshaft

Inspection and service notes for the crankshaft.

Honing

Procedures and recommendations for honing the cylinder bore.

Measuring Piston-to-Bore Clearance

Procedure for accurately measuring piston-to-bore clearance.

Pistons and Rings

Inspection guidance for pistons and rings.

Section 11 Reassembly

Typical Reassembly Sequence

A suggested sequence for complete engine reassembly.

Install Crankshaft

Steps for installing the crankshaft.

Install Piston Rings

Procedures for installing piston rings.

Install Fan and Flywheel

Procedures and warnings for installing the fan and flywheel.

Prepare the Engine for Operation

Final checks before starting the engine.

Testing the Engine

Recommendations for testing the engine after reassembly.

Related product manuals

Kohler COMMAND CH18-745