Another Kohler question

ford2go · #1 (**permalink**) 11-02-2009, 02:05 PM

Well, I put a new head on the K-301 that I've discussed here previously. However, in the process I found something else to wonder about.

The manual says that it uses 2qts of oil. I've always had to fill it with about 2-1/2 qts, which seems pretty excessive. While I had it apart, I looked, and the dipstick extended just slightly below the bottom of the block. There's a drawing in the manual that shows it extending a lot further, but it's just a drawing.

The dipstick itself measures about 13 inches (length of the metal rod only).
I have a K341 that measures 14 inches, and it's about an inch taller, so it might be the right length.

The thing is that I've begun to think that somebody put this engine together from a couple of others, or at least usng parts from other engines. I have run it for a few years with 2-2/2 qts, but I understand that overfilling can cause problems. I don't know if this relates at all to my issues with this, but it makes me uncomfortable.

Appreciate any comments, Thanks

Ford_Six · #2 (**permalink**) 11-02-2009, 05:44 PM

Is there a parts diagram that give the correct dipstick number?

ckal704 · #3 (**permalink**) 11-02-2009, 06:19 PM

K341 takes 2 quarts.
K341A takes between 1 and 1-3/4 quarts, depending on the particular sump.
If you have a 341, use 2 quarts and ignore the dipstick. (well, put in 2 quarts and make your own mark on the dipstick if the oil level does not read in the zone marked on that particular dipstick.
If you have a 341A, you'll need to verify that you have the correct dipstick as you must determine the correct quantity of oil by starting with 1 quart and adding until the dipstick reading tells you to stop.
I don't know if you'll find a part number on the dipstick you have. Some have them, some don't. But, if you give me the SPEC number off the tag on the engine (if you have a 341) I will give you the correct PN for the dipstick.

I don't think I have ever typed the word "dipstick" so many times in one session in my life.

ford2go · #4 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 01:28 AM

Thanks ckal,

It's a K301S -- sorry if I confused you on my original post. I tried to compare it to my K341 to see if I could tell that way.

Anyway:
K301S
Spec 47828

Not sure if there is a part number on the one in there now, but I appreciate the info.

I saw the A series note in the manual -- wonder where they used those engines? Seems odd that they wouldn't know the pan capacity.

As a personal note, I appreciate that you used "dipstick" many times without referring to me personally ( as far as I could tell

)

ckal704 · #5 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 07:04 AM

I'll get you a part number today at work.
I had the feeling there was an opening somewhere to use the word dipstick in a derogatory/humorous manner, but just couldn't bring myself to do it to you for no reason at all!
Especially since I didn't read your post carefully enough to realize you were really asking about a 301.
I have seen some JD's and Cub Cadets with odd sumps designed to fit into those tractors just so. I could never figure out whythey did it the way they did, but I am sure some engineer somewhere had a good reason.

ckal704 · #6 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 10:54 AM

I hope you have the correct dipstick!
The good news is that they are still available if you need to replace it. Part number 47-038-18.
The bad news is that a new one retails for $60.00!!
The extra bad news is that if you replace the dipstick, you are also to replace the dipstick tube (pn 47-180-04) to the tune of $49.00.

The correct dipstick should have a length of 13-31/64", according to the parts manual.

If it were me and I had the wrong dipstick, I'd just put 2 quarts of oil in the thing and mark the existing dipstick to indicate the full mark rather than pay $110+ for the right one.

I do know of a fellow that seized an engine twice after a rebuild because he put oil in to the dipstick level rather than measuring it out. Turns out the owner had put in a dipstick from another engine that was too long.
And no, it was not me. I have screwed up plenty in my career as a teacher and a tech, but not this one!

ford2go · #7 (**permalink**) 11-04-2009, 02:24 AM

Well, it appears that I have the right errr dipstick. I found the p/n earlier on the Kohler site, and that's what I have. I'll check the length -- do you happen to know how it's measured?

I saw the price as well at OPE engines, which seems to be a good Kohler source. I love the old K, but they do get you on some items ( spark plug wire is $20+ ).

It's still a strange deal. 2 qts barely puts a drop on the bottom of the errr dipstick

. Filling it to the indicated mark would for sure take it to the top of the oil pan, and possibly a bit into the crankcase area of the block.

Will post again if I ever figure this out.