We have found several auxiliary generators with seizing lower bearings on the Late model LeSharos and Phasars recently.
The Kohler generator is obsolete and repair parts are scarce. The major
problems we see are cruddy gas left in the tank over the winter and lower
bearing failure that will ruin the case (which is no longer available). The
auxiliary gas tank has a drain so flushing the tank and replacing the filter
is a simple but necessary task. The lower bearing on the armature is exposed
to dirt, rain, snow and slush. They lose there lubrication in this
unfriendly environment, seize and damage case. If you run your generator and
hear a squeal or rumble from the bottom of the case the bearing must be
replaced.


Our replacement procedure:


1. Carefully remove the 4 long lower case mount bolts (after soaking the
threads in penetrating oil).


2. Gently tap around the lower case end and pull down gently (this will take
some time). Be careful of the 3 wires that run up the shielded cable.


3. Rome the securing nut from the lower case and gently pry the cable back.
The case will not drop out of the way (Just barely).


4. Using a pinch plate and puller remove the bearing.


5. Replace the bearing with a NAPA # 6205-2RSJ double sealed ball bear (or
equivalent).


6. Reassemble with a little anti seize in the appropriate places.


Do this BEFORE your next trip to Death Valley or the Michigan I/P during
mosquito season to keep cool and comfortable.