Answer
Apr 22, 2025 - 01:39 AM
Hmm, if your Kohler engine is running away (revving way past normal RPMs) and the governor shaft is turning clockwise instead of holding steady, there’s a good chance the governor has failed — or at least lost adjustment.
While my diagnosis can't be entirely accurate, in these engines, the governor is supposed to counteract throttle movement and hold engine speed steady. If it’s not resisting at all or turning in the wrong direction when the engine revs, it usually means either:
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The governor gear inside the crankcase is damaged or broken,
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The governor arm slipped and lost its adjustment,
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Or the internal pin on the governor shaft isn’t engaging properly.
A failed governor gear is common, especially if the engine was over-revved or ran low on oil. If the engine is racing and doesn’t respond to throttle movement, don’t run it. Shut it down ASAP to avoid throwing a rod or damaging the valvetrain.
I'd consult the manual if I were you, since you probably need to set the governor (by holding the shaft and adjusting the arm) and know how to inspect and replace the internal governor gear if needed.
Good luck!
