Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler Engine CV20S-65561, ac volts, failure modes

Question
I am going to visit my father-in-law for Christmas. He lives in NC and tells me he has been having some issues with his Craftsman Riding Mower (Model # 917.272950) with a 20 HP Kohler engine on it. The battery keeps going dead on him even though it is a new battery. He uses it several times before it goes dead over a few weeks. He jumps it with his car battery and it starts right up. Sounds like the charging system is not functioning. Someone told him there was a known issue with the charging systems on these 2001 vintage Kohler engines. Any known failure modes and/or quick diagnostics steps you can give me that I could perform for him while visiting?

Answer
Hello Larry:

Be Carefull and have a Safe Trip to NC. I was Born and Raised in Wilson, NC but Now Live in WV. I am Not Aware of Any Issues with the Charging Systems on these Engine and I have Not Seen a Notice from Kohler Pertaining to these Charging Systems. Here are some Things to Remember and some Diagnostics to Perform. 1- If you Jumpered the Small Engine with an Automobile and the Auto Engine was Running at the Time, then the Auto Charging System Most likely Shorted the Small Engine Charging System. Never Use a Running Engine to Jump a Samll Engine. The Charging Systems Usually are Different and the Larger AMP System will Short the Lower AMP System (Usually the Small Engine System). Most Stators/Charging Coils can be Tested Using the Guide at the Following Site Addy; For Testing the Electrical (Charging) System on Mowers you can Use this Site Addy; http://faqs.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/faqs.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=3438&p... and Use the Link for AC Volts/DC Amps Meter Setting Chart. This is for Briggs Engines and Works Well for Kohler and Other Engine OEMs. You can View a Breakdown of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.kohlerplus.com/login.asp and Select Enter as Guest. Now Select the Thumbnail of the Engine Catalog you Wish to View. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.

Respectfully

John