Kohler K161

OWNER’s
MAN UAL
MODELS
K91
I
(4 hP)
Kl6l,&Kl81
(7 hP)
(8 hP)
operating & maintenance
instructions
CONGRATULATIONS-You have selected a fine four-cycle engine. Kohler designs long-life
strength and on-the-job durability into each engine...making a Kohler engine
dependable...dependability you can count on.
n Parts subject to the most wear and tear (like cylinders, crankshafts, and camshafts) are
made from precision-formulated castiron...and because the cast iron cylinders can be
rebored, these engines can last even longer.
n Kohler engines are easy to service, all routine service parts--points, condenser, spark plug,
air filter, carburetor--are easily and quickly accessible.
0 Every Kohler engine is backed by a worldwide network of over 10,000 distributors and
dealers. Service support is just a phone call away. Call l-800-544-2444 (U.S. & Canada)
for Sales & Service Assistance.
To keep your engine in top operating condition, follow the simple maintenance procedures
given in this manual.

Kohler K161 Specifications

General

Fuel Type	Gasoline
Cooling System	Air-cooled
RPM	3600 RPM
Engine Type	Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Ignition System	Battery ignition
Starter Type	Recoil
Bore x Stroke	2.5 x 2.44 in (63.5 x 62 mm)

Summary

Safety Information

Explosive Fuel Warnings

Warning about gasoline flammability and fire hazards.

Rotating Parts Hazards

Caution about moving parts causing severe injury during operation.

Hot Parts Burns

Warning regarding hot engine components causing severe burns.

Carbon Monoxide Danger

Danger of poisonous exhaust gases in confined areas.

Electrical Shock Risk

Risk of shock from touching electrical wires while running.

Accidental Start Prevention

Precaution to disconnect spark plug lead before servicing.

Explosive Gas from Batteries

Hazard of explosive hydrogen gas from batteries during charging.

Fuel Recommendations

General Fuel Handling

Advice on purchasing, storing, and handling gasoline.

Approved Fuel Types

Details on unleaded, leaded, gasohol, and gasoline/ether blends.

Oil Recommendations

Recommended Oil Type and Viscosity

Guidance on API service class and viscosity grades based on temperature.

Checking Engine Oil

Importance, procedure, and level checking for engine oil.

Changing Engine Oil

Procedure for new engines and subsequent oil changes, including draining and refilling.

Operating Instructions

Pre-Start Checklist

Essential checks before starting the engine, including oil, fuel, air cleaner, and neutral gear.

Starting the Engine

Instructions for starting the engine using rope or electric start methods.

Battery Information

Information on the standard 12-volt battery and charging.

Angle of Operation Guidelines

Guidelines for engine operation angles to prevent damage.

Cooling System Maintenance

Importance of clean air intakes and shrouds for proper engine cooling.

Engine Speed Control

Warning against tampering with governor settings to avoid hazards and warranty voidance.

Stopping the Engine

Procedure for safely shutting down the engine, including idling and turning off the ignition.

Maintenance Instructions

Required Maintenance Schedule

List of maintenance tasks and their required frequencies (daily, hours).

Engine Identification Numbers

Explains how to find and record engine model, specification, and serial numbers.

Air Cleaner Service

Details on the paper air cleaner element and optional precleaner maintenance.

Spark Plug Service

Instructions for removing, checking, and gapping spark plugs every 100 hours.

Carburetor Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting common issues and checks before adjusting the carburetor.

Kohler Carburetor Adjustment

Step-by-step guide for adjusting fuel needles and settings for Kohler carburetors.

Walbro Carburetor Adjustment

Instructions for adjusting fuel needles and settings for Walbro carburetors.

Fuel Filter Service

Guidance on inspecting and replacing the fuel filter.

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem Diagnosis Table

A table listing engine problems and potential causes like fuel, oil, or ignition issues.

Model Designation

Suffix Designations Explained

Explains suffixes like EP, P, R, S, T and their meanings.

Storage Procedures

Long-Term Engine Storage

Steps for long-term engine storage, including cleaning, oil change, and fuel treatment.

Major Repair Information

Service Assistance

Information on obtaining major repair services from authorized dealers.

Specifications

K91 Engine Specifications

Power rating, displacement, bore, stroke, weight, oil capacity, spark plug details.

K161 Engine Specifications

Power rating, displacement, bore, stroke, weight, oil capacity, spark plug details.

K181 Engine Specifications

Power rating, displacement, bore, stroke, weight, oil capacity, spark plug details.

Limited Warranty Information

Warranty Coverage and Exclusions

Details of the 1-year limited warranty, including what's covered and excluded.

Obtaining Warranty Service

Instructions on how to get warranty service and contact information.