Kohler K301as Rebuild / tools

Hubman · #1 07-28-2010, 08:02 AM

Hi , I currently own a 123 , it is in the shop now for repair . But am thinking I would like to learn how to rebuild the engine . I am apprehensive , thinking I could really make things worse, seeing I never pulled one apart before . I mean to say a real newb , rookie never any engine before .
If it comes back from shop and works properly fine, but I have found a donor engine it is 2 hrs drive away . It is pulled from machine sitting inside .before being pulled was started up , owner said it runs strong , no smoke , no knocks. ( includes PTO ,carb,oil pan )
Asking $350 or best offer. What would be a good offer ?
My question is what special tools are required to disassemble and reassemble a Kohler motor . Like special spring valve compression tool , ( correct size ) or any type will work stuff like that . Any help would be appreciated. Where would you buy the tools ( links) part no.'s ?
Thank you

Hubman · #2 07-29-2010, 07:44 AM

Would this be a list of the basic tools I would need ?
I know the piston ring compressor is too small , I think this kit is for up to 5 hp .
But are the tool names correct . Or is this kit just junk .

http://www.smallenginesuppliers.com/...gora.cgi/35027

Ash_129 · #3 07-29-2010, 09:23 AM

Do you currently have any hand tools or a kit? Screwdrivers, wrenches, socket/rachet set? If so, you have the basics down.

Through my teardown/rebuild process of my K301 in my 129 I used the following tools (including some of the basics mentioned above).

Air impact wrench for the flywheel nut. I used my harmonic balancer puller kit to pull the flywheel. Strap wrench to hold it for reassembly.
C-style valve spring compressor. Magnetic tool to catch the valve keepers.
Magnetic base and dial indicator for setting crankshaft and camshaft endplay.
Valve lapping compound and lapping tool. (My guides and seats were fine, but I installed new valves.)
Piston ring expanding tool.
Piston ring compressor for piston assembly install.
Torque wrench.
Soft dead-blow mallet.
Feeler guage set.
(Micrometer for checking machine work on crankshaft. I like to check)

I had the block machining done by a machine shop (overbored and final fit the new piston).
Also, had to have the crankshaft rod journal turned by a machine shop.

I washed/cleaned the machined block and crankshaft.

I personally would not buy the kit. But, I already owned the above mentioned tools before getting into the K301. (Mechanic by trade, hobby rebuilt a few GM v-8's and automatic transmissions.)

I hope this helps a little.

Hubman · #4 07-30-2010, 07:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ash_129

Do you currently have any hand tools or a kit? Screwdrivers, wrenches, socket/rachet set? If so, you have the basics down.

Through my teardown/rebuild process of my K301 in my 129 I used the following tools (including some of the basics mentioned above).

Air impact wrench for the flywheel nut. I used my harmonic balancer puller kit to pull the flywheel. Strap wrench to hold it for reassembly.
C-style valve spring compressor. Magnetic tool to catch the valve keepers.
Magnetic base and dial indicator for setting crankshaft and camshaft endplay.
Valve lapping compound and lapping tool. (My guides and seats were fine, but I installed new valves.)
Piston ring expanding tool.
Piston ring compressor for piston assembly install.
Torque wrench.
Soft dead-blow mallet.
Feeler guage set.
(Micrometer for checking machine work on crankshaft. I like to check)

I had the block machining done by a machine shop (overbored and final fit the new piston).
Also, had to have the crankshaft rod journal turned by a machine shop.

I washed/cleaned the machined block and crankshaft.

I personally would not buy the kit. But, I already owned the above mentioned tools before getting into the K301. (Mechanic by trade, hobby rebuilt a few GM v-8's and automatic transmissions.)

I hope this helps a little.

thanks for your insight , Yes I have basic tools . Over the years I have fixed my share of stuff , just never took apart a engine for rebuild.
Thanks for the list of specialty tools you posted. This will be very helpful .
On my web search for tools . I see Sears carry's automotive tools , would craftsman tools be ok .

TEET · #5 07-30-2010, 02:05 PM

Craftsman tools are fine, especially with the lifetime warranty on hand tools, you cant go wrong. To ad to Ash_129's list, I would pick up a set of bore gauges to properly measure your bore. You can find them on the cheap. I also picked up a craftsman gasket scraper a while back, and it saves a lot of time removing crusty, caked on gaskets without gouging the metal surface. I also have a Craftsman piston ring compressor that I use on my small engines, its designed for automotive engines, but works well on small engines too.

http://cgi.ebay.com/6-PC-Telescopic-...item335f568e21

Jeff (teet)