Kohler Generator 4KW - 1998 290 Sundancer Removal ?

[Herrickjde]

My generator will turn over, but will not start and I have been told there are a number of kill switches on this generator that keep if from running. It only has 79 hours and did run during the survey 2.5 months ago and produced power. The marina changed the fuel filter and now it will not start. Then they had to rebuild the starter, new plugs and it still won't run. I was told that it is very tight (i can see that) they need to remove it to fix it (est 4 hrs remove & 4 hrs install plus repair time and parts needed). They need to remove the batteries and manifold from the port engine. Curious is there is a computer diagnosis plug on this generator to see what the error codes are ? Does this sound right to remove to repair? Any troubleshooting ideas before I pull the trigger on the removal expense? Any idea on where to get a service manual? I am telling myself that after all of this it is still cheaper than a rebuilt or new generator.

 

[Strecker25]

That’ll be about right for the removal. Even an oil change is a nightmare so it’s reasonable they’d want to pull it out.

There’s no electronic diag onboard that I know of. They do have low oil pressure switches that would stop it from firing so see if you can check that. You can also manipulate the throttle manually while trying to start it to see if the governor isn’t doing it’s thing. Beyond that, the plugs are easy to access so maybe a compression test?

Be careful cranking over and over in the water, you can fill the muffler with water and back it up into the cylinders

 

[bbwhitejr]

Did they prefill the fuel filter/water separater after installing it?

Bennett

 

[Herrickjde]

Good info everyone and did they prefill the fuel filter I don't know as I was not there. I am finding with boats that it is hard to get a ballpark estimate on trouble shooting items are concerned. I try to get feedback with the work orders along the way to keep it from getting crazy. I am wrestling with how much I will really use the generator as I when I am staying overnight most places I will be docked using short power. But there are alot of nice places near me that I can just anchor and will need the generator.

 

[Golfman25]

I would double check their install of the fuel filter. I had on old school one which didn't seal and couldn't start an engine. I would also check the fuel pump. I'd do a compression check before i pulled it. I can't see having to pull the gen. after 79 hours. Good luck.

 

[Espos4]

Can you shoot some carb cleaner into it and see if it runs for a few seconds?

That could confirm (or rule out) a fuel supply issue.