Kohler is a trusted brand known for producing high-quality generators. Still, even with a quality generator, you may experience an occasional issue. There may be times in which you encounter an error, or a fault code may show up on your generator. Fortunately, this does not spell the end for your generator. Most of these issues are trivial and are not detrimental to the machine. Depending on the error or code, there are steps you can take to troubleshoot it. These steps can be found in the generator’s manual, or you may need to resort to calling a professional to resolve it. Listed below are some common errors that you may encounter along with some tips on how to troubleshoot them.
High Engine Temperature Shutdown (Code: HE)
When you see the code HE, that means your engine has shut down due to the high temperature it’s running at. The shutdown will occur if the engine coolant temperature exceeds the maximum temperature for more than approximately 5 seconds. This protective measure becomes active after the engine reaches the crank disconnect speed. In order to resolve this issue, it’s recommended that you check for blocked air inlets and exhaust outlets.
Low Oil Pressure Shutdown (Code: LOP)
In this situation, the generator shuts down because a low oil pressure condition has existed for more than 7 seconds after the engine has reached crank disconnect speed. In this case, you should respond by checking for leaks in the lubrication system. You should, also, check the oil level and add oil if necessary. It should be noted that the low oil pressure shutdown does not protect against low oil levels. That’s why you need to check the oil level at the engine.
Overcrank Shutdown (Code: OC)
This type of shutdown occurs after you have unsuccessfully tried to start your generator 3 times. The crank cycle is set for 3 starting attempts of 15 seconds cranking and 15 seconds rest. The generator will, also, shut down after 1 crank attempt if no speed signal is sensed. It’ll shut down 1 second after the fault is detected. If you’re experiencing this type of error, you need to check the fuel supply, spark plug, and battery. You should, also, check for loose connections. If all these steps prove unsuccessful and the issue persists, then you should contact a professional.
Overvoltage Shutdown (Code: OU)
A Kohler generator may shut down if the voltage exceeds 120% of the voltage regulator setpoint for more than a second. If this does happen and you’ve confirmed that this is the issue, then you should contact the authorized distributor.
Undervoltage Shutdown (Code: UU)
Similar to how a Kohler generator will shut down if the voltage exceeds a certain threshold, the same thing happens if the generator falls below a certain setpoint. A shutdown may occur if the voltage falls below 80% of the voltage regulator setpoint for more than a second. This protective mechanism will become active 30 seconds after the engine starts. In this situation, you can try reducing the load and restart the generator set. If this doesn’t work, then you should reach out to a professional.
High Battery Voltage Warning (Code: HB)
You’ll see the HB error code displayed if the engine starting battery voltage rises above 16 VDC for a 12 VDC system or above 30 VDC for a 24 VDC system for more than 10 seconds when the engine is not running. This fault condition does not inhibit the engine from starting. The issue will resolve when the battery voltage returns to a voltage within the limits for more than 10 seconds. To fix this error, you should check the battery rating and condition. You should, also, check the battery charger operation.
Low Battery Voltage Warning (Code: LB)
You’ll see the LB error code if the engine starting battery falls below 8 VDC for a 12 VDC system or below 16 VDC for a 24 VDC system for more than 10 seconds when the engine is not running. Again, this fault condition will not prevent the engine from starting. The fault condition clears when the battery voltage returns to a voltage within the limits for more than 10 seconds. Like the previous situation with the high battery voltage warning, you should check the battery rating, condition, and charger operation. However, if none of these steps pan out, this is a case where you may have to charge or even replace the battery.
Conclusion
There are a variety of error codes that can show up on your Kohler generator. Although you may not encounter them often, you should still have a sense of how to resolve the issue. However, keep in mind that if these errors are frequent, there may be a larger issue at play. Most codes will be something you can handle on your own but there may be instances where you’ll need to reach out to a Professional Kohler Generator Expert. But it is our hope that the information found here in the blog can help you navigate certain situations as they arise.
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