In 2006 Kohler was having some problems with incidents of smoking on start-up, primarily with Command vertical twin engines, and through research found that oil was settling in the combustion chamber above the piston. This was caused by the oil slots inside the piston being too large,now the pistons have been redesigned to significantly reduce the amount of oil that can collect and get past the ring grooves into the combustion chamber when the engine is shut down.

But that in the new piston poses a new problem. In most cases the Mahle piston cannot be used in place of the old piston without changing to the new style connecting rod as well, with some of these new rods costing around $70. Also, if the rings ever have to be replaced on these Mahle pistons you have to use the new style rings as well.

All of the pistons that we carry in the aftermarket here at TEW are the old style pistons and can be used with the old style rods, and rings.  But, we also carry a full line of Kohler piston assymblies so it is crucial to be certain of your engines needs.

Click here to see our Kohler Piston Assymblies

I have posted the Kohler Piston Parts Bulletin 246 so that you will be able to identify what pistons that you have and we will be able to find you the right parts for your machinery.

CLICK HERE TO SEE KOHLER PARTS BULLETIN PB-246