Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler K341 engine wont start, craig lawrence, spray cleaners

Question
John:

I have a 1975 JD model 300 with a Kohler K341AQS 16 HP engine in it (spec # 71169A). On Sunday when I used it, it started harder than usual but once I got it running it was fine. On Monday evening I tried to start it again and it cranked but wouldn't start. I have good spark and compression, I reset the timing, adjusted the valves, checked the fuel pump, and disassembled and cleaned the carb. Still nothing. Since I have spark it must be a fuel problem, but the bowl of the carb is definitely being filled by the fuel pump. What can I try next?

Craig Lawrence

Answer
 Hello Craig:

 Have you Tried to Start the Engine with Starter Fluid? If the Engine Starts and Quits, then Clean and Rebuild the Carburator. The Carburator needs to be Soaked Overnight in Cleaning Solution(Gunk carburator cleaner) and then Blow Out All the Passages with Compressed Air. Install Kit. Cleaning a Carburator with Spray Cleaners Dont Really Help. They Loosen the Varnish but Dont Remove it from the Carburator. Have you Checked the Flywheel Key? If the Flywheel Key is Damaged it will Fire the Plug at the Wrong Time and Not Run Also. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Addy http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Click on Parts Look Up. Then Select the OEM(Kohler) and Enter the Model Numbers K341-71169. Then Double Click on the Model that Shows Up in the Search Results Area. This will Open a New Window for you to View Online. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John