1872 Carb problem

[OhioGuy]

This weekend, I attempted to start the 1872, (Kohler 18HP Magnum) it sounded odd and only turned over slightly. It actually sounded like something was locked mechanicaly.

Short story, the cylinders were full of gas and the oil was contaminated.

My assuption was the float stuck open and allowed fuel into the cylinders and eventually it bled by the rings into the crankcase.

I could be wrong, that's just my theory. So I changed the oil and pulled the plugs, cranked it over, cleared the cylinders, and now it runs fine.

I was going to do a float kit and general carb rebuild kit, any other suggestions?

Thanks,
Curt

 

[magicalj]

I don't know if the m18's had this problem, but the old KT's used to have issues with the fuel pump allowing that exact thing to happen. The fix was to replace the fuel pump with a new style that helped prevent it from happening.

AJ

 

[bwmarine]

I dont really think the float needs replacing unless its damaged... needle and seat maybe... more than likely you just got a piece of debris in the needle and seat and it has made its way through.
If you do replace the float make note of how the float sits in the carb when turned upside down (level with body of carb?)and check float throw. Then replace with new and make sure the settings are the same. Sometimes you can put them in without adjusting and sometimes you do have to make adjustments.

 

[diesel_nut]

I know the 1872 all too well .

You've probably got a LOT of condensed water in the float bowl and the float bowl is probably rusted a bit. Take carb off and clean it out.
I've done this every spring on my 1872 for years...........

 

[Dave01]

How long was it between this problem and the prior start?

If after your carb rebuild you are still concerned it may be dripping by a bit, just add a brass valve in the gas line, easy way to avoid future problems.

 

[OhioGuy]

Hi Dave,

It was started a week or so ago. I ran the snowblower on it all winter without problems.

I ordered a float repair kit and carb repair kit for about $25.

Thanks for all the good suggestions!

Curt