Tapping noise on Kohler 38hp (Predator 38x Stump grinder)

[Stubby]

Just a thought . Have you checked the valve clearances ?

[aspenarb]

On 03/10/2024 at 02:32, salmonhooker said:

Greetings, 

 I just acquired a grinder with the same engine , it is making the exact sound as your engine in the video.  Just wondering if the oil and filter change helped with your situation?  Or if you were able to fix the problem

 

Thanks 

 

First place to look these engines with a noise like this is the camshaft. These Kohler engines will wipe out cam lobes if they are left idling too long, they rely on splash lubrication which just doesn't happen that well at tickover. Easy enough to check, as @Stubby suggests check valve clearance, if miles out it will be a cam lobe or lifter. Not hard or expensive to change, other than that its going to be the bottom end.

 

Bob

[Clutchy]

On 03/10/2024 at 02:32, salmonhooker said:

Greetings, 

 I just acquired a grinder with the same engine , it is making the exact sound as your engine in the video.  Just wondering if the oil and filter change helped with your situation?  Or if you were able to fix the problem

 

Thanks 

Turns out, needs to be high quality oil matching the kohler specs 

 

 

Specifically with an anti foaming agent - I ended up using a super bike brand of oil with the above agent (sorry can't find what and where I bought it). 

 

Fixed the problem and has been fine since 

[salmonhooker]

3 hours ago, Clutchy said:

Turns out, needs to be high quality oil matching the kohler specs 

 

 

Specifically with an anti foaming agent - I ended up using a super bike brand of oil with the above agent (sorry can't find what and where I bought it). 

 

Fixed the problem and has been fine since 

Thanks , I'll  give that a shot.