Kawasaki 15 hp hard to start when cold

[mf13368]

I recently bought a used Wright with a 15 kaw (80 hrs) that's hard to start when cold, starts on one pull when warm. I've replaced the plugs and filter. Any other ideas? Thx!

Mark

[MowerMedic77]

I would check to see if the choke closing completely

[qualitylawnpro]

Every kawasaki i have owned has been cold natured!

[Phil G]

I would check to see if the choke closing completely




I bet our man's got it in one :usflag:


atb Phil:ukflag:

[mf13368]

I would check to see if the choke closing completely

Re-checked the choke today - it's closing fully.

Mark

[MowerMedic77]

Re-checked the choke today - it's closing fully.

Mark

Okay then next post some engine numbers so we can all know exactly what engine we are dealing with model and spec# will do.....

You say you installed new plugs, can you give us the plug info brand, number and what you set the air gap to and what did you torque them to in the cylinder( i know the last one sounds weird but i have had units come it that customers say i put in new plugs and i find them loose)

Have you replaced the fuel filter?
Do you have a good flow of fuel to the carb?
Seems like low hours but may need a valve adjustment, once engine info is posted some exact numbers for settings can be given.....

[mf13368]

Okay then next post some engine numbers so we can all know exactly what engine we are dealing with model and spec# will do.....

FH451V AS02-01

You say you installed new plugs, can you give us the plug info brand, number and what you set the air gap to and what did you torque them to in the cylinder( i know the last one sounds weird but i have had units come it that customers say i put in new plugs and i find them loose)

Oregon 77-319-1 (RCJ8Y equivalent), .030, didn't use the torque wrench but went snug then 1/2 turn (15-20 ft/lbs?)

Have you replaced the fuel filter? Yes
Do you have a good flow of fuel to the carb? Yes - fresh fuel
Seems like low hours but may need a valve adjustment, once engine info is posted some exact numbers for settings can be given.....

A little more info - it takes at least 10 pulls to get started when cold, once its warm, one pull. Runs great once its warm. The mower is an 04 so obviously it sat unused a lot.

[MowerMedic77]

Well thats all good so...
Compression readings? Minimum with Centrifugal ACR is, 57 psi
and your valve lash setting is, Cold TDC "0.004-0.006"
keep us posted

[ljhanson12345]

its just cold natured. everything takes an extra pull for our equipment. we also have a 15hp kawasaki and when its cold we just spray some gas in the carb. one pull and it starts right up

[lifetree]

Every kawasaki i have owned has been cold natured !

Ditto on that !!

[ein999]

I cant tell you how to get it started the first time except for making sure the choke is on all the way. But for the future and easier starts put a little top end lubricant in your motor or engine. This gives it better compression and smoother startup and better for colder wheather. If you would of done this when your motor was new you would have an easier time starting it in the cold. Most start issues are carb and compression related thats only my opinion.

[JosephLawnCare]

I think you need to adjust the heater setting in your garage. JK!!
All the engines I have are hard to start when it's cold. Briggs, kawi, kohler. They don't like cold weather, neither do I.