Kohler Model D Manual, Older (1923-25)

[Rusty Fingers]

Looking for a manual for an early Model D. I've seen the big PDF version but this one does not address some of the earlier features: Eisman mag, vaccum fuel, etc,.

Thanks in advance.

Chuck

[Andrew Mackey]

Look in older generater posts - look for Ed Wright. I believe his son has the business now. Ed bought a ware house full of old Kohler stuff, and had many manuals. he should have one for your D.
Andrew

[Rusty Fingers]

Andrew, I sure appreciate the information. So far I haven't had any luck getting to his web site . Tomorrow I'll give a call to the last listed telephone number.

Chuck

[BobRR]

What are you looking for?BobRR

[BobRR]

I didnt post that right is there something specfic your trying to find out?BobRR

[Rusty Fingers]

Hi Bob,

A couple of things specifically relating to the parts breakdown on the earlier generators. Seems that the newer manuals have great parts breakdowns, and these are helpful, but there have been some changes. I'd like to have the earlier breakdown just so I know the differences.

More specifically, I have a question regarding the "choker" attachment to the engine valve cover. Take a look at the attached photo for a better explanation of my question. Looks like something is still missing. Also, there appears to be an oil "site window" in the valve cover. What actually covers the hole. It does not look to be threaded or keyed to accept a keeper ring for a sight glass???

Don't get me wrong. With the help of others on this site, the project is coming along great. I did find out there is a big difference in pistons and ring configurations. Mine have only three rings and the pistons appear to be somewhat shorter. I'm in need of a good piston and at least two ring sets. My search continues. I guess that's the beauty of restoring these old critters. It's like searching for lost treasure.

Thanks for your interest and any help offered. Have a great weekend.

Chuck

[Rusty Fingers]

Guess the attachment didn't come through. Let's try this again. This attachment is referenced in the previous post.

Chuck

[ListerDiesel]

Originally Posted by Rusty Fingers

Guess the attachment didn't come through. Let's try this again. This attachment is referenced in the previous post.
Chuck

The hole is indeed an "Oil Sight Hole" as per the manual for the military set, but nothing is shown in the way of a cover or glass for that hole. The manual says that there is a small copper pipe visible in this hole and that oil should be seen to be discharging from the pipe when the engine is running.

The other matter of the carburettor mounting seems to be a question of options. The book I have shows a large vertical casting with the air cleaner on top, and this flange mounting that you show in your picture is the place this bolts to. The extra mounting takes the weight of the aircleaner away from the carburettor flange.

The extra screw hole that your picture shows being used is present on the later engines, so I guess it was intended for a different style of air cleaner?

Hope this helps.

Peter

[BobRR]

The site hole is open from the factory.It is for checking oil circulation. I used a hole saw with out the pilot bit on a piece of thick plexaglas and made a site glass that was a push fit. The extra holes in the valve cover are for the other style intake that has a oil bath filter.It uses the 2 side holes and not the top one that yours uses. Hope this helps. BobRR

[Rusty Fingers]

Thanks Bob, that is good information. I think I'll look into some kind of small sight glass, just to keep things neat.

To all who have given information, thank you. I'm sure my questions aren't over yet. I'm getting lots of help from you Smokstak guys and it's helpful and much appreciated.

Chuck

[Andrew Mackey]

Rusty, DO NOT plug that hole! It is the only place designed to releave excess crank pressure from blow by on pistons. If you plug it, it may lead to oil leaks else where - like the crank - generater bearing, which has no seal, just a slinger! If your model D has the auto start system, then a selenoid is mounted under the carb, that applies the choke, when the engine is turned over. This choke assembly has a vertical rod set in a cast iron assembly, that sits on the carb, and attached to the head by a 1/4x20 bolt. The early versions only had a screen over the air intake. Later versions had an oil bath air cleaner assembly, with a bi metal heat pot set into the exhaust manifold. Choke was automaticly closed when engine was cold, as it warmed, choke opened as manifold heated. My model C was a 1920 - S/N C-119
Andrew

[Rusty Fingers]

OK Andrew, I will not plug the hole. Your explanation is a good one and I do know how to take good advise, thanks.

I'm still very confused regarding some details of the different versions of the D, or the variations of equipment installed. As I've said previously, I'm fairly certain that the engine was complete and that no mods had been made prior to tear-down. I still haven't solved the mystery of the pistons/rings combo included on my engine. They appear to be originals but are very different from what most people have experience with. I'll keep researching and am open to any further suggestions from the gallery, thanks.

Also, looks like several people have suggested that I get the back issue of GEM with the Model D restoration. I'm sure that will be helpful.

Thanks again to all. I couldn't get this thing done without you.

Chuck

[BobRR]

Andrew I disagree mine has a 1/2x1 slot in the govener that more or less goes straight to the crankcase so it I dont think it can build any crankcase preasure?Ive run mine for about 20 hrs so far and doent seem to be leaking. You dont need the plug (site glass) I used it to keep oil in and dirt out. As far as differences I had 5 D's in the shop at one time. from 23 to 44. There were 4 variasions of the block (was not a progression of change 23 &44 were close ecxept the 44 oil filter so block as drilled different)

[BobRR]

I don't know what i did but will try and finish . There were 3 different carbs,2 different style fuel pumps,(these were all for gasoline) 2 different intakes with and without filters,2 different governors, 2 different oil bath filters,2 different mags, 2 different mag drives(which would work on ether mag)2 different exhaust manifolds,2 different radiators,3 different fans, 2 different style belts, 3 different ways of adjusting and 3 of the heads were drilled different for mounting brackets?? I didn't take these a part so didnt have any idea how many different pistons they had? But Kohler didn't seem to have any rhyme or reason how they built these?? All these engines were stock best I could tell. Some things never change as there plumbing products are just as confusing when it comes to parts! BobRR

[BobRR]

I double checked my oil filler cap and it is vented also so if you have a vented cap you shouldnt have any problems. BobRR