7 hp kohler wont stay running

1.) Remove the bottom section of the oil bath air filter. This is the same as taking out the filter all together. Try it; if it still does it, then it is not the air filter.

2.) Check the fuel flow to the carb by removing the gas line at the carb and seeing how well gas runs out of it. If it dribbles out or barely trickles, clean the line, the sediment bowl (replace gasket) and check the tank for foreign matter. Be sure the shutoff valve is blown out with air and does not have a blockage. Check the gas cap for a blocked vent.

3.) If it still does it after 1 and 2, remove the air cleaner from carb body entirely and dribble some gas into the carb. Try it; does it run better, or will the combination of dribbled gas and choking make it run better? If so, then remove the carb and get a kit to rebuild it. You will see if the carb is your problem when you open it up, because it will have junk in the bowl and maybe some water, too. Clean it thoroughly with carb cleaner, making sure the small passages in the main jet needle are clean.

If you still have problems or if the spark was yellow or weak-looking with no snap to it, start by cleaning every ignition connection. Replace the points and condensor and time it to .020 with a feeler gauge.

If you do all this, you will have performed a major tune-up, and it should run like a top.

Good luck. Email me if you have more questions.

You should also check for excessive looseness in the throttle valve shaft in the carb. Play here will allow excessive un-metered air in and will cause difficult and erratic idling. Have fun! Ed.