Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): SEARS - KOHLER ENGINE, craftsman lawn mower, kohler engine

Question
I have a 15.5hp kohler engine \ craftsman lawn mower. The main fuse blows immediately after I turn the switch. I have traced the short to a black wire that runs to underneath the flywheel. I don't have a tool to pull the flywheel nor do I know what to do when I get it off. Any help is appreciated.


Answer
Hi Andy,

The wire goes to the ignition coil and it probably is faulty.  You will need to pull the flywheel.  See my proceedure below.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael

The flywheel is located under the recoil/cooling shroud. Its' bore is tapered and mates with the tapered crankshaft. The keyway in the shaft, keeps it from spinning on the shaft.  A nut secures it.  Use an impact wrench on the nut or a strap on the flywheel.  Don't put force on the cooling fins or they will break.  The recommended way to remove a flywheel is to use a puller.   An alternative, is to tap on the crankshaft top, with a brass hammer or use a punch tip on an air hammer.   The flywheel will need to be held up and supported or upward pressure applied with 2 large prybars. (A 2 person job.) Care is needed so the flywheel doesn't crack or bend.  Also be careful to not mushroom over
the crankshaft top.  Replace the coil.  Install the flywheel after cleaning the tapers and re-tighten the nut to 65 ft/lbs.   Gap it to the coil at .012".