Electrical System
34 24 690 34 Rev. DKohlerEngines.com
Ignition Systems
These systems use a capacitive discharge (CD) coil. With CDI fi xed timing, ignition timing and spark remains constant
regardless of engine speed. Timing of spark is controlled by location of fl ywheel magnet group as referenced to
engine TDC. MDI adjustable timing uses a digital microprocessor which is located in ignition modules. Ignition timing
varies depending upon engine speed with this system.
A typical ignition system consists of:
● 1 magnet assembly which is permanently affi xed to fl ywheel.
● 2 electronic capacitive-discharge ignition modules which mount on engine crankcase.
● 1 kill switch (or key switch) which grounds modules to stop engine.
● 2 spark plugs.
A Spark Plug(s) B Oil Pressure Switch C Oil Sentry
™
(Green) D White Kill
E
Flywheel Stator
Assembly
F Ignition Module G
Non-Smart Spark
™
Ignition
H
Rectifi er-Regulator
Connector
I Rectifi er-Regulator J Oil Sentry
™
Kill (Green) K Violet B+ L
Solenoid Shift Starter
Assembly
M Starter Solenoid Tang N Starter Solenoid Stud O Fuse P Blue
Q
Alternate Ignition Kill
(–)
R White S Accessory Terminal (+) T Yellow
U Ignition Kill V Red W Carburetor X Carburetor Solenoid
Y Black (Ground) Z Intake Manifold Screw AA Black AB
Oil Sentry
™
Panel
Light/Remote Light
AC Oil Sentry
™
Light AD Connector AE Magneto AF Key Switch
AG Accessory AH Battery AI Starter AJ Ground
AK Key Switch Ground AL Rectifi er AM Blue/Red AN Battery Positive
AO Battery Negative
Electronic Ignition Systems Tests
NOTE: Ignition tester must be used to test ignition on these engines. Use of any other tester can result in inaccurate
fi ndings. Battery on unit must be fully charged and properly connected before performing tests (a battery that
is hooked up or charged backward will crank engine but it won’t have spark). Be certain drive is in neutral and
all external loads are disconnected.
Test Ignition Systems
NOTE: If engine starts or runs during testing, you may need to ground kill lead to shut it down. Because you have
interrupted kill circuit, it may not stop using switch.
Isolate and verify trouble is within engine.
1. Locate connectors where wiring harnesses from engine and equipment are joined. Separate connectors and
remove white kill lead from engine connector. Rejoin connectors and position or insulate kill lead terminal so it
cannot touch ground. Try to start engine to verify whether reported problem is still present.
Condition Possible Cause Conclusion
Problem goes away. Electrical System Check key switch, wires, connections,
safety interlocks, etc.
Problem persists. Ignition or Electrical System Leave kill lead isolated until all testing
is completed.
Identify white kill lead of engine
wiring harness connector. Establish
a connection to a known good
ground location. Engine should kill
completely. If not or only one cylinder
is affected, check ignition modules
and white kill lead connection for
affected module.