What oil for 1977 12hp kohler k301?
- Thread starter joegreen
- Start date
Rotella T4 or T5 in 10W-30…
Gaskets may not be compatible with full synthetic…
Gaskets may not be compatible with full synthetic…
What type of gaskets are incompatible with synthetic?
They are paper gaskets and synthetic oil will not harm them.
We've been using Rotella full syn in that same engine in a Cub Cadet for years, no issues. You could probably use Vitalis for engine oil and it wouldn't care, it's a tough puppy.
I am very well versed in the kohler K series and magnums. My top favorite small engines of all times.
Some of them are really beat and knock / burn oil, but that is because they have survived long enough to be completely worn out.
Please keep in mind that no doubt, non detergent oils have been used in a 1970's engine, and as a result there will be a large accumulation of iron glitter and sludge in the bottom of the engine. Now that you own it, if you start using modern oils, you will essentially start to clean all that debris and begin holding it in suspension and create a lot of wear.
You will want to remove the oil pan and wash out the engine inside with a solvent. Then when you use a modern oil of your choice, do no exceed 25 hrs between intervals as these have no way to filter the oil. They shred lots of iron. They all will burn oil too. So keep it full.
I run 15w-40 / 5w-40 / SAE 30 diesel rated oils.. Do not run SAE 30 in winter.
Some of them are really beat and knock / burn oil, but that is because they have survived long enough to be completely worn out.
Please keep in mind that no doubt, non detergent oils have been used in a 1970's engine, and as a result there will be a large accumulation of iron glitter and sludge in the bottom of the engine. Now that you own it, if you start using modern oils, you will essentially start to clean all that debris and begin holding it in suspension and create a lot of wear.
You will want to remove the oil pan and wash out the engine inside with a solvent. Then when you use a modern oil of your choice, do no exceed 25 hrs between intervals as these have no way to filter the oil. They shred lots of iron. They all will burn oil too. So keep it full.
I run 15w-40 / 5w-40 / SAE 30 diesel rated oils.. Do not run SAE 30 in winter.
This, and if it burns the 5W30, try 10W30.
I've owned many Kohler k series. They do well with a HDEO.
5w40 if winter use. 15w40 for summer.
I have a k301 that I have run Amsoil 10w30 small engine formula year round for the past decade with good results as well.
5w40 if winter use. 15w40 for summer.
I have a k301 that I have run Amsoil 10w30 small engine formula year round for the past decade with good results as well.