I never tried the Sea Foam. But, I do use Marvel Mystery Oil in my gasoline once in a while. I never "dump", or begin using snake oils UNLESS I had first already pulled the engine head, cleaning carbon from both the head and block. This way, I don't concern myself with the question: "Where does all that Crap go?". You are also starting out with a clean slate. I have done this for years, and never had any issues with MMO.
Though I have to wonder, gasoline had lead in it back in the day. So, I think it's fair to say something is missing that is good for valves in these older, Kohler engines. This could have been known long before that huge Kohler Service manual was written, so don't bother slamming me with the book. What need for a MMO recommendation with leaded gasoline to be found in the operator's manual? Furthermore, for what it's worth, I even have used chain saw mix gasoline in my cubs with no problems at all, that don't do anymore to the Kohler as it does for a good running chain saw!
Just got a 125 in, and the exhaust valve was stuck, leading the former owner to believe the k301 was "blown-up". Nope, crappy gas, and a miserable carbon'ed-up head, valves, and piston.
edit: 10:02am, 7/28/16:
Mark, Though I never preformed your experiment, I did/do however, use the MMO to clean and remove carbon, sludge, and rust with decent results.
|