Carb problem

[Trentrushton]

My max 2 will not run or start for that matter, it is getting gas, has good spark plugs, will not even run with starting fluid. It turns over strong. It's the 23 hp Kohler. What could be wrong???

[thebuggyman1]

I think I would do a compression test....it could be as simple as a partially sheared flywheel key making it spark at the wrong time, or a push rod that came loose.
Your engine is a Kohler 23hp? or a Briggs 23? The pushrod is common with the Briggs.

[jpswift1]

I'm going to agree with Jim. When the compression gets low on the Kohlers this is what usually happens. Is this a Kohler V twin Command or Kohler flat twin Magnum? That's the worst case scenario. Best case scenario is that, like Jim mentioned, the flywheel key is partially sheared. I fixed a Tecumseh engine on a snowblower where this happened.

[Trentrushton]

It is the Kohler v twin, and my first step should be to check the flywheel key?

[thebuggyman1]

The problem will always be in the last place you look.

You can start anywhere, but I doubt it is a carb problem if it wont run on ether.
Popping the valve covers off is pretty quick and easy, so is checking the flywheel key.

[blown84gt]

Sounds like no spark to me, it should at least sputter with ether sprayed in there even with low compression.

[814cannob]

I have that same motor. Get on the kohler web site and download the manual if you haven't already. There is a shutdown solenoid equipped on that motor. When running your supposed to full throttle the motor wile turning the key off. It positions the motor to start easy due to the high compression. You need the motor to be at top dead center for it to turn over. Sometimes rocking the machine in gear to get the motor in position to start. Just my idea. I noticed in another thread you indicated back fire. You will get this if the motor is shut down incorrectly. Also that's why there not pull start. Hope this works. PM me if you need the manual but I'll be away the next few days.

[Trentrushton]

I took the carb off, cleaned it, pushed it around until the Liston was too dead center and it's running like a champ. There is some squeaking and some popping when making sharp turns. Is this natural? How to and what parts to grease?

[amphibious drew]

I would check your chains and bearings. Loose chains pop and bad bearings squeak.

[jpswift1]

I would check your chains and bearings. Loose chains pop and bad bearings squeak.

That's exactly it.

Good to hear you got it running well now.