Help Blog

In the unfortunate case that your Kohler Engine equipment is running slow and won't accelerate properly, you might find it to be one of these pesky culprits: 

-Engine not properly warmed up

-Running out of fuel 

-Spark plug gap incorrect

-Low idle set too low (check to make sure you're above 1000 RPM)

-Electric clutch dragging

-Low idle fuel setting too lean

-Crankshaft end play zeroed by drive

-Parasitic load on power take-off (PTO) shafts 

If you're engine is not running at all after a hot test, and you see smoke rising out of the top of the horizontal-shaft engine or flywheel screen on the vertical-shaft engine, it could be one of the following: 

-Battery cables reversed causing charging stator to short out

-Defective rectifier-regulator causing charging stator to short out

-Paint or oil burn off

-Electric clutch has no running clearance 

When you're experiencing difficulties with your Kohler powered equipment, call an expert at Cub Cadet Parts n' More. We're happy to help. 

Properly maintaining your Kohler engine is key to the efficiency and long-lasting life of your equipment. Here are a few tips to making sure your Command PRO engine is in tip top shape. 

Fuel Recommendations: 

-Use fresh gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Use a minimum octane rating of 90 if you're in a country that uses the Research method. 

-Do not overfill your tank. Don't mix oil with gasoline. 

-Leaded gasoline may be used in areas where unleaded gasoline is unavailable, through unleaded is always preferred as it leaves fewer combustion chamber deposits. If you must use leaded gasoline, be aware that this will result in more frequent service of your cylinder head. 

-Gasoline/Alcohol blends (10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline) are approved for Kohler engines. All other blends are not approved. 

-Gasoline/Ether blends (up to 15% maximum MTBE blend) are approved. Other blends are not. 

Oil Recommendations:

-You must use the proper weight and type of oil in your crankcase. This information can be found in your owner's manual. If you have questions about the proper oil to use, contact a specialist. 

-Check the oil daily, and change the oil regularly. If you don't, you'll risk premature engine wear and failure. 

1. Be safe. Your engine should be cooled off when you plan to change the spark plug. To begin, disconnect your spark plug wire. 

2. Remove the old spark plug by using a spark plug wrench. Check the gap on the new plug - refer to your manual for the correct gap on your mower. Adjust the gap to its proper measurement by using a specialized gap tool or set of feel gauges. 

3. Pay careful attention during this step to not cross-thread the new plug. To install, smoothly thread the plug in by hand. This will take a few turns.

4. Tighten the new spark plug with your spark plug wrench. Be sure not to over-tighten. 

5. Reconnect the spark plug wire. 

If you have any questions about replacing the spark plug or operating your MTD lawn mower, contact a specialist. 

The FLEX Wide-Area Mower allows you to cut more grass in less time and offers you an adjustable cutting heigh so you get the job done right. To adjust the cutting height: 

1. On the left side of your mower, adjust the handle to the desired height. 

2. Use a sturdy object, like a board, to prop the attachment up. Now, adjust each of the front castor wheels to the corresponding position.

3. Remove the board. You're ready to mow!

Remember that your FLEX Wide-Area Mower has six adjustments. Always be sure the height position of your wheels matches the power unit's height adjust lever on the left side from step one. 

1. Checking your equipment for leaking hydraulic fluid: 

When checking for leaks, make sure to protect yourself by wearing work gloves and safety glasses. You can easily check for leaks by placing a piece of cardboard underneath the suspected area. You've identified the leak's location once you begin to see spots of fluid on the cardboard. 

2. Filling the hydraulic fluid reservoir: 

When you notice your machine operating on less power, it's time to refill the reservoir. Remove the oil filling plug, then fill the reservoir 3/4 full of new fluid. 

3. Removing air from the hydraulic cylinder:

After adding new fluid, you need to remove the trapped air from the cylinder. Begin by revmoing the oil filling plug and fully extending the piston rod. Then, as fast as you can, twist the release screw counter-clockwise. Your piston rod should move back into the cylinder which releases the trapped air. To prevent unnecessary harm, don't touch the moving piston rod when bleeding the cylinder, and keep your safety in mind just as you would when operating the machine. 

Materials you'll need:

Arnold Siphon Pump

-Be safe. Disengage the spark plug ignition wire. 

-Unscrew the mower's gas gap. 

-With your Arnold Siphon Pump, place the black tube into the appropriate container and the orange tube into the gas tank.

-Pump the handle three or four times to effectively prime it. Once the liquid begins to flow, you can stop pumping. 

-After the bad gas has been pumped out, remove the Arnold Siphon and add your new gas. 

-Replace the gas cap and reconnect the spark plug ignition wire. You've successfully changed the gas on your Cub Cadet walk-behind mower. 

Always be sure to properly dispose of your used gas. If you have questions regarding the maintenance or operation of your Cub Cadet equipment, don't hesitate to contact a trained professional. 

If you're more of a visual learner, watch the video below: