15 HP Kohler Engine Question

[Woollman99]

Wondering if anyone can give me some idea(s) as to what's wrong with my riding lawn mower engine. I have a lawn rider that has a 15 horse Kohler engine---the rider is approx 12 years old. Afer sitting idle for a day, the mower will start right up, however after running for 4-5 minutes, the engine shuts down and quits running. The engine will turn over, but not fire. Upon inspection, the engine seems too hot---almost overheated. If the engine sits idle for a full day, it will fire up but quit running again after the 4-5 minute timeframe. Can anyone give me some ideas as to the issue with the engine quiting and possibly overheating?

Thanks

[Jeremy airjer W]

Fuel and spark, which one is missing?

Next time it doesn't start spray a little carb spray into the carb and crank it over. It it starts and sputters to a stall your missing fuel. If it doesn't start check for spark.

[sikasoman]

Speaking from a similar experience, verify the gas cap vent hole is open. If the vent hole is plugged, the scenario you describe can happen.

[Surface Tension]

Checking the gas cap is good advice.

As for the overheating.

Check the oil level.

Look for grass or mouse nest in the cooling shroud, around the head and flywheel.