Kohler Carb. settings K321 14hp

[BrownA]

I just rebuilt my carb. on a Kohler 14hp K321. This is in a old 1970's Bobcat Skidsteer. When I went to set the initial adjustments on the carb. I found conflicting information. 1st the Bobcat manual says the adjustments are as follows: Main fuel screw 2 turns and the idle fuel screw 1-1/4 turns. The Kohler service manual says for a Kohler adjustable jet carb. ( which is what I have, not a Walbro ) 3-1/4 turns for the high idle and 2-1/2 turns for the low idle. I don't know why there is a differance in the two manuals. The Kohler manual is their service manual that covers K91 thru K341 engines. Does anyone know what the correct settings are ? Why am I getting two different numbers from the manuals. Any help is appreciated. Thanks Alan

[HubbardRA]

I usually try the idle jet at about 1 1/2 turns from bottoming, and set the main jet the same. Then start the engine and tune the idle. Sometimes you will have to play with the choke at the same time you are adjusting to keep the engine running. The true adjustment is to turn the idle screw till it starts to run rough in one direction, then turn the screw till it starts to run rough in the other direction, then set the screw half way between. After setting the idle, adjust the main in the same way. As you increase the throttle, adjust the jet till it smooths out. When you get to full throttle, adjust till rough in both directions and split the difference. Then bring back to idle, readjust idle if necessary. While at idle throw throttle wide open. If engine hesitates, then open the main slightly until hesitation disappears when throttle is opened from idle. This should be the correct adjustment. This technique usually works on nearly all the adjustable carbs. The numbers in the book are only ballpark adjustments to allow starting. These carbs still require adjustment as I stated above, even if you have the right numbers. All engines require slightly different settings. I have a K321 on my 61 Wards Squire, yet I have no idea what the factory specs are for the settings.

[BLT]

Keep in mind that the settings mentioned in the manual are primary settings, something to get the engine running. After the engine is warmed up and still running then you go for the fine tune. My advice, take Rod's advice. That is carb adjusting 101 and as you get into it more you'll understand what was said.

[KVANDY12]

The guys just saved you $69.00. I had problems with my AC914 took to a mowor repair shop. They did what ever it need done to it to make it run. That was 7 year ago before I found this site. All the invoice said was adjusted carb. Live and learn. Ken