Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler 25 hp problems.., kevin mears, head gasket

Question
Hello!
I have problems on a great dane 61 inch fitted with a kohler 25 hp vertical shaft unit..it has done 480 hrs, about 2002 model, runs on correct oil and is looked after. last time used it started to misfire and lost power, after travelling for 5 miles on trailer, problem went away..after using it for a few hrs problem came back, it sounds like it is puffing air out of the exhaust, chuffing sounds like a steam train, no oil blowing out,my thoughts are valves or head or head gasket, any ideas? I have read on the internet about this engine having many problems like this! is this a typical kohler problem? do you know how kohler respond to these problems outside warranty?

Regards

Kevin Mears UK

Answer
 Hello Kevin:

 Send me the Model Numbers Off of the Engine, Please. There have been a Few Problems with Kohler, Mianly bending Push Tubes and this Doesnt Sound like your Problem. When this Happens Again, try a Small Amount of Starter Fluid and see if it Runs Proper when you do. If it Runs Correctly, then the Carburator has Trash/Water Moving Around in the Carburator. If the Starter Fluid Makes No Difference, then I would Check the Valve Seats and Head Gasket. Be Sure to Look for Bent Push Tubes when you Vkeck the Valve Seats. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John