Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Fuel Leak - Kohler Engine, crankcase oil, george mason

Question
I have a Craftsman Garden Tractor (917.271011) with a 15.5 hp Kohler engine (CV15s-PS-41567).

I just completed my pre-season tune-up a have a problem that I believe is with the carburetor/valve setting.  Fuel was dripping out through the spark plug hole and flowed out readily with the spark plug removed.

Any help in troubleshooting the problem will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you.

George Mason


Answer
Hello George:

Change the Oil. The Crankcase Oil is Most Likely Contaminated with Gas. Install a Cut Off Valve in the Gas Line to the Carburetor and Manually Turn Off the Gas when Not Using the Engine. As Long as the Engine is Operating Properly, you Don't need to Replace the Needle and Seat in the Carburetor Bowl. If this Engine has the Cut Off Solenoid in the Carburetor Bowl, then Replace the Solenoid and Install the Manual Cut Off Valve. This has Become a Common Problem for All the Engine OEMs. I Have been Seeing this Problem for the Past Few Years and Even a New Solenoid will Usually Last for a Few Months or if you Get Lucky, it May Last a Couple of Years Before the Problem  Returns. Most of My Customers have Installed the Manual Cut Off Valve and are Having Less Carburetor Problem than Before the Valve was Installed. They Turn Off the Valve and Run the Engine Until the Carburetor is Dry of Gas and Then Store the Engine for Winter. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let Me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully  

John