PDA

View Full Version : 14hp kohler cub cadet


randy1212
Aug 6, 2009, 01:37 PM
I have a problem with the points keep getting pitted up and I have a no spark clean them and it runs.. my question is if I convert it to electronic ign. Will that take care of the problem? Or is there a different problem I am not thinking of? Thanks for the help

crigby
Aug 6, 2009, 04:07 PM
Hi,
No installing a electronic ignition kit on of old K series will eliminate the problem. Pitting stems from mismatched impedance, and cleaning and filing the points is a temporary fix in that once the pitting has occurred, the plating on the contact surfaces is ruined.
Peace,
Clarke

randy1212
Aug 7, 2009, 07:18 AM
Can you tell me why the points pit up? Can you get one of those stens electronic models to put on it? Will it work with a battery ignition? Thanks for your help? I am just courious what makes the points pit up so fast? Thanks

crigby
Aug 7, 2009, 09:58 AM
Hi,
Though you have not said, I gather you have a K321. I will give a link to a service manual (it is a faster download than Kohler itself - they give them away also) and Figure 8-8 shows points and tells the basics of the capacitance reasons.
Kohler says to always replace points, condenser and plunger at the same time. I agree! I also use the originals. The spark plug (H10/RH10 or equivalent) is also critical especially on battery ignitions; literally designed around that plug.
I do not completely agree with the capacitance explanation because of my electronics training. T=RC is an equation for the charging and discharging of capacitors. T=time, R=resistance and C=capacitance. The ignition coil has a resistor built in. If it starts to fail, the voltage is too high and the time span is too short. If it fails completely, the points will probably heat red hot (they do in an obsolete Tecumseh) and fail.
Additionally, never leave the switch on with the engine not running, it will ruin the points.
Link:
http://www.asberry.net/files/TP-2379.pdf
Peace,
Clarke