Exmark Kohler engine oil leaking blown head gasket – repair

Exmark manufactures commercial and residential lawn mowers and other turf care equipment. You can choose from walk-behind mowers, zero-turn mowers, or stand-on mowers. Kohler is a manufacturer of small engines used in a variety of applications. Like lawnmowers, generators, and construction equipment. Many people commonly use outdoor power equipment that features reliable and powerful engines. When Exmark lawnmowers are equipped with Kohler engines, they are referred to as Exmark Kohler mowers. These machines are designed to provide powerful and reliable performance. That makes them a popular choice for both commercial and residential users.

You should be aware of the possibility of oil leaks and blown head gaskets if you own an Exmark lawn mower with a Kohler engine. In most cases, this problem can be easily fixed if caught early. My recommendation would be to replace it first. In order to better understand the diagnosis process, let’s first discuss the probable reasons for the oil leak.

exmark kohler engine oil leaking blown head gasket
exmark kohler engine oil leaking blown head gasket

Probable Reasons For Oil Leaking 

Oil leaks in Exmark Kohler engines are most commonly caused by issues with the crankshaft seal or the breather gasket. When the crankshaft seal is leaking, the oil will be visible underneath the frame rather than under the engine. A malfunctioning breather gasket can also cause oil leakage, as it can cause resistance when the oil exits its path. In some cases, Exmark engines may experience a loss of crankcase vacuum, which can lead to catastrophic oil leaks. It’s important to note that these leaks can occur in areas beyond the engine itself.

If the head gasket is blown, you may experience low or no compression in the engine and may also hear a leaking sound. To check for increasing air pressure, you can use a compression gauge.

Diagnose A Blown Head Gasket?

Check the head gasket

The spark plugs protrude from a cylinder head on top of the engine. A cylinder block is also located below. A straight crack appears to be present. The cylinder head and cylinder block need to be joined. A head gasket seals the joint. A cylinder head seal is responsible for sealing the cylinder block against the cylinder head. Metal buildup and discoloration can easily be detected. There is a leak on that part of the head gasket if you see it.

Check the blocks and heads are the same width

You will need a fine feeler wire or gauge to check the cylinder head and cylinder block width. Gaps should not be larger than 0.001 inches. A small, unmeasurable amount is ideal.

Be sure to unplug the spark plug

Next, you must crank the Kohler engine on your Exmark. To disconnect your engine’s spark plug lead, first pull the starter cord three times. If you hear a hissing sound coming from the cylinder head and block. It could indicate a leak in the head gasket.

Connect The Spark Plug Again

After reassembling the engine, reconnect the spark plug lead and start the engine to check for further issues. Check the joint of the cylinder head for any signs of high-pressure steam, which indicates a leaking head gasket.

How to Replace A Blown Head Gasket In An Exmark Lawn Mower

If the head gasket is damaged, you can confirm that. The only option is to replace it. When your Exmark lawn mower breaks down while you are mowing your lawn, it can be very frustrating. A blown head gasket is one of the most frequent issues encountered by Exmark owners.

You can easily fix the problems by clicking on the options we have provided for you. Simply take a look and choose the one that suits your needs.

  • If you don’t want to fix the blown head gasket of your Exmark lawn mower yourself, you can opt for the expensive alternative of taking it to a repair shop for the replacement. Although this is the fastest and most convenient option, it will undoubtedly be costly.
  • Several tools and some physical effort are all you need to replace the blown head gasket yourself.  You will save a significant amount of money by doing this, even though it will require time and effort.

Steps to Replace the Head Gasket on an Exmark Commercial Lawn Mowe

In the event of oil leakage and a blown head gasket, it is advisable to promptly contact a certified repair technician. Nonetheless, Exmark commercial issues appear to be prevalent across all series. If you prefer to attempt fixing the issue yourself. Here are the necessary steps.

Step 1: You will need to remove the oil fill cap and dipstick. Followed by the oil drain plug, allowing the oil to flow into a collection pan.

Step 2:A spark plug wrench is then used to loosen the spark plug after the spark plug wire has been disconnected.

Step 3: With a socket wrench, take out the bolts that are holding the cylinder head. Next, cautiously detach the cylinder head. If you find this difficult, consider referring to the precise manual available on the Kohler website, or seek assistance.

Step 4: Check the cylinder head for any fractures or impairments. If any are detected, a replacement will be necessary. Otherwise, cleanse the cylinder head with soapy water and a soft brush.

Step 5: Inspect the former head gasket. If it’s ruined, you’ll need to acquire a replacement. You can usually find Exmark head gaskets at many lawnmower repair shops.

Step 6: To fit the new head gasket, start by coating both sides of the gasket with a thin layer of sealant. Next, put the gasket on the cylinder head, and insert the bolts. Start with a socket wrench and tighten the bolts even more with a hand wrench.

Step 7: Reattach the cylinder head and spark plug, and afterward, replace the oil drain plug and refill the engine with new oil.

Step 8: Lastly, start the engine and inspect for any leakage. Your Exmark lawn mower head gasket has been effectively replaced if there are no leaks.

Conclusion

Experiencing oil leaks in an Exmark Kohler engine due to a blown head gasket is a frequent issue that, if ignored, can result in significant engine harm. It’s crucial to recognize the indications of a blown head gasket and address the problem as soon as possible to prevent expensive repairs. Regular maintenance and following appropriate installation procedures can assist in preventing blown head gaskets from occurring in the first place.

FAQs

What are the signs of a blown head gasket in an Exmark Kohler engine?

Engine overheating, White smoke coming from the exhaust, Loss of engine power, Oil or coolant leaking from the engine, Milky appearance in the oil or coolant.

Can a blown head gasket cause oil to leak in an Exmark Kohler engine?

Yes, a blown head gasket can cause oil to leak from an Exmark Kohler engine. The gasket serves as a seal between the engine block and the cylinder head, and when it fails, oil can leak out.

What is the reason behind a blown head gasket in an Exmark Kohler engine?

Several factors such as overheating, incorrect installation, or manufacturing defects can cause a blown head gasket in an Exmark Kohler engine.

What measures can I take to avoid a blown head gasket in my Exmark Kohler engine?

Regular maintenance like coolant flushes and oil changes is essential in preventing a blown head gasket in your Exmark Kohler engine. Avoid overheating the engine, and correct head gasket replacement by following the procedures.

What steps should I take to repair a blown head gasket in my Exmark Kohler engine?

When dealing with a blown head gasket in an Exmark Kohler engine, the usual solution is to replace the gasket. However, this procedure can be intricate and requires considerable effort. If the gasket failure has caused further engine harm it may also require additional repairs.