Powermatic starting problem

**masterclean5** · 12-20-2008, 03:22 PM

I have a steamway Powermatic problem, bought unit new in 1994, 23hp kohler.

Here’s the problem: the last 5-8 jobs my unit will run fine, then just shut down. It then starts right back up again, may run for 1 minute, 5 minutes, 30 min; then shuts back down. Starts right back up…eventually won’t start. Now I can’t get it started at all.
--No spark from the spark plug wire
--when I turn key to on and push in oil bypass button, I am getting 12 volts to the ignition coil.( No spark from the spark plug wire)
I’ve had ignition coil problems before but one of the main symptoms was that it(ignition coil) needed to cool down for a few minutes before it would start again. I understand it might have something to do with the governor. Any input you have would be greatly appreciated. If you could call me back today that would be awesome.

Sincerely,

Kent Taylor
951-317-8179

**Ara Klujian** · 12-21-2008, 03:12 AM

Did you make sure the plug was grounded when checking for spark? If so the armiture and coil is the next thing to test. I think they are fairly cheap but you should take off the shroud and check the condition and armiture gap first.

**Duane Oxley** · 12-21-2008, 04:24 PM

Check your kill circuits- most likely, it's a bad oil sensor, robbing the plugs of a spark.

It could be the recovery tank kill switch, but more likely an oil sensor.

**kelly m** · 12-02-2009, 09:02 PM

the old style kohler has a hall effect pick up coil behind the fly wheel....if your engine has opposing cylinders chances are you have a shorted coil and a pick up...on its way out (because of the shorted coil) if it has a sam module replace the box...or at least check for an intermitant connection on the wiring harness just under the front cover. broken wire ...bad ground etc