Adjustments: engine speed and throttle linkage – Cub Cadet 4 x 4 Volunteer User Manual
Page 219

Kohler Engine Speed and Throttle Adjustment Addendum
215
ADJUSTMENTS:
ENGINE SPEED AND THROTTLE LINKAGE
1.
The engine should idle at 1,200 RPM:  
See Figure 7a.1.  
•
Slower idle speeds will result in poor idle quality, 
reduced flow of cooling air, and reduced oil flow.
•
Higher idle speeds will result in harsh gear 
selector action and damage to the transfer case.
2.
Top no-load speed should be 3,850 RPM:  
See Figure 7a.2.
•
Slower top no-load speeds will result in dimin-
ished performance.
•
Higher top no-load speeds will create unsafe 
operating conditions and engine failure.
Figure 7a.1
Figure 7a.2
NOTE: A photo tachometer can be used on the 
driving clutch element, which is connected 
directly to the engine crankshaft. A photo 
tachometer used on the driven clutch element 
will not register correct engine RPM.
3.
Lift the cargo box, release the camloc® fasten-
ers that secure the engine cover and remove the 
engine cover to reach the throttle linkage.
4.
Before adjusting the idle speed or governor, con-
firm that the throttle cable operates properly:
4a. Look for physical damage.
4b. Operate the throttle and observe the
movement.
4c. “Blip” the throttle pedal, looking for consis-
tent engine response and return to idle.
5.
If the throttle cable linkage is suspect, isolate the 
engine governor from the throttle cable to con-
firm the source of the problem.
CAUTION: Some of the following adjustments 
are made or checked with the engine running. 
Before making these adjustments, confirm that 
no unsafe conditions will arise from running the 
engine. Possible unsafe conditions include, but 
are not limited to: fire hazard, exposure to hot or 
rotating parts, asphyxiation, and carbon monox-
ide poisoning.
6.
To adjust the engine speed, remove the air filter 
cover, but not the air filter. 
NOTE: Service the air filter if it is dirty. A 
blocked air filter will effect idle speed.
NOTE: The principle in making this adjustment 
is to start at the source (engine) and work toward 
the input (throttle pedal).
KOHLER ENGINE SPEED AND THROTTLE ADJUSTMENT ADDENDUM
