TSC style cub cadet, kohler courage issue

[DZG]

I just got an 05 cub cadet 1084 (i think, its the small belt drive model sold at big stores), anyways, it was free, but it has an issue where itll run 15 mins or so like normal, then die, and then wont even turn over untill you adjust the valves, then it runs fine for another 15 or 20 minutes.

It has a 19hp kohler courage Vtwin, i dont know much about the newer kohlers beyond the command series, any ideas/experience is appreciated.

[Eugene]

Free Kohler service manuals are on line. The 20 minute run time sounds like an ignition coil problem.

[muleboss]

Sounds to me like when you are adjusting the valves the coil is cooling down and will then run.

[DZG]

I would think coil to, however, a coil wouldnt make it hard to crank, unless its a compound issue of some sort

[gitractorman]

I'd say you have a burnt exhaust valve. Once the engine cools down, then it will release and allow the engine to build compression and run. Once it heats up and swells, it sticks open and there's not enough compression for the engine to run or re-start until it cools back down and closes.

Kohler Courage engines are junk from the factory. I'd say you're lucky it lasted 10-years. I stopped working on the ones from TSC, Lowes, and Home Depot, because so many of them came from the factory with the keys sheared off in the flywheel. I mean NEW tractors, directly from the factory, you would start them one time and the key would shear off in the flywheel. Those early 1000 series tractors had LOTS of problems which is why you see so many for sale on Craigslist for $100 to $200.

Time for a new one!

[DZG]

Eh i got it for free from the original owner, its a nice little mower, to nice to scrap. Maybe ill just find a vanguard and stick in it