KT17S overheats
 

My Red 782 has a Kohler KT17 which overheats and stops when the tractor side covers are on but runs great without them. This occurs after about 10 -15 minutes of operation. Funny the covers were not on the tractor when I bought in the spring. The engine side covers are installed by the way. Does anyone know if there is an additional top cover for this engine OR if a missing grass screen could in any way affect the air flow across the engine causing the problem. There are two studs protruding up from the exhaust manifold that look to me like something should be installed there. The problem exists no matter what the outside ambient air temperature is. Thanks for any insite you can provide.

Your engine is supposed to have duct work that extends all the way to the front grille. Plus without the grass screen, there is a good chance that the cooling fins on the heads are packed full of crud. You need to find the duct work for the engine and pull off the side covers and clean the fins. That should fix your problem, or at least help a lot.

AJ

The front covers are mounted on those studs. I can take some pics of mine if you need them.

A picture would be great. I haven't found a parts diagram yet for the engine. The fins are clean and a very decent amount of air flows through them. I think it's due to no top cooling but I may be wrong. I will go after the remaining covers and report the results. What a great resource your site is!

Parts diagrams can be found on Parts Tree's website.

AJ