Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Wiring, starter moter, fly wheel

Question
Hi,I have a 20hp Kohler engine that I need to know what the wires are for. On top of the engine we have 1 Black wire,1 Yellow,1 Red+Purple,1 Double White,1 Red+Blue, and 1 Red wire. Now from the side of the engine we have a White wire that comes from the fly wheel, a Black wire going into a plug earthing of the starter moter, a Blue+Yellow wire going into the same plug as the Black one, and out of this plug we have a Red wire that comes out and goes to the starter moter. The key set up we are using is from our old Cub Cadet and the wires coming from that are 2 Red from the same hole,1 Orange,1 Black,1 Yellow,1 Blue and 2 extra Green wires from a male plug. If you could get back to me and let me know what each wire is for I would be very greatfull. Thank you. Jodie

Answer
Hi Jodie,

Sorry I don't have a clue.  All engines are different and so are keyswitches.  You might need to trace each wire and do some testing to match them up.

Usually the keyswitch sends power from the battery to the ignition coil and solenoid.  Also to the lights. Safety switches may be interconnected along with the charging circuit.

Good Luck,
Michael