FAQ
TL;DR: KD136 uses 2‑state oil-sensor logic—“When there is no oil, the sensor shortens to ground and turns off the unit.” [Elektroda, barton21, post #16994203]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps KD136 owners troubleshoot an always‑on oil light and avoid engine damage or needless returns.
Quick Facts
- Model referenced: Kraft & Dele KD136, 7 HP, 3000/2800 W single‑phase. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16990182]
- KD136 report: service claimed the oil lamp may glow when oil is OK; KD138 reversed logic. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16993956]
- Safety behavior: grounding the oil‑sensor lead immediately shuts the engine off. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16994044]
- Practical outcome: after several starts and the first oil change, the lamp went off. [Elektroda, domelk, post #17474772]
- If oil level is correct but lamp stays on, store return was advised. [Elektroda, barton21, post #16993834]
Why is the oil indicator on my KD136 always on?
One owner reported the KD136 lamp stays on despite correct oil. Service suggested KD136’s lamp can indicate “OK,” unlike KD138. This created confusion. The same owner later saw the lamp go off after several starts and the first oil change. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16993956]
Does the KD136 shut down on low oil?
Yes. The circuit shorts to ground on low oil and cuts ignition. With oil present, the sensor remains open. As one expert put it, “When there is no oil, the sensor shortens to ground and turns off the unit.” [Elektroda, barton21, post #16994203]
How can I test the oil level sensor safely?
- Locate the oil‑sensor lead and ensure the unit runs at idle.
- Briefly touch the sensor lead to engine ground using an insulated tool.
- Confirm the engine stops instantly; release immediately. This verifies the shutdown circuit. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16994044]
Could the oil sensor be defective from new?
Yes. A blocked or defective sensor can misreport oil status. Disconnect the sensor at its clip to isolate the circuit. If the lamp behavior changes, the fault is in that path. Replace the sensor if confirmed defective. [Elektroda, Staszek49, post #16993718]
Should I replace the oil sensor right away if I suspect a fault?
An expert recommended immediate sensor replacement to prevent engine damage. He also noted possible design errors in some engines, like missing oil‑channel plugs, which can mislead indicators. [Elektroda, Krzysztof Kamienski, post #16993725]
Should I return the generator if oil is OK but the lamp stays on?
Yes, returning to the retailer was advised when the oil level was correct and the indicator stayed illuminated. This avoids warranty issues and confirms whether the unit is within spec. [Elektroda, barton21, post #16993834]
What ultimately resolved the always‑on oil lamp for the original poster?
The owner reported the lamp turned off after several starts and the first oil change. That is one documented case showing normal behavior resumed post break‑in and fresh oil. [Elektroda, domelk, post #17474772]
Will disconnecting the oil sensor turn the lamp off?
Not necessarily. The owner unplugged the sensor and the lamp still lit while the unit continued to run. This suggests the lamp circuit can be independent or latched. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16993956]
What exactly does the oil sensor circuit do on this genset?
It acts as a two‑state switch: open with adequate oil, short‑to‑ground with low oil. The ground state disables ignition, stopping the engine to prevent damage. “Open with oil; short without oil.” [Elektroda, barton21, post #16994203]
Is there a model difference between KD136 and KD138 oil lamps?
Yes, according to service feedback relayed in the thread. KD136 was said to light when all is OK, while KD138 lights on low oil. Treat this as model‑specific indicator logic. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16993956]
What’s a quick diagnostic if the lamp stays on but oil is correct?
Perform the ground test. Briefly touch the sensor lead to ground while running. If the engine stops, the shutdown path works, and the issue is likely the indicator logic or sensor state. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16994044]
Can a faulty oil sensor prevent starting even with oil present?
Yes. If the sensor falsely shorts to ground, the ignition is cut and starting is blocked. That’s a designed failure mode to protect the engine from damage. [Elektroda, Staszek49, post #16993718]
Are there signs of a broader design issue to watch for?
One expert mentioned potential design errors in similar engines, such as missing plugs in oil passages. If symptoms persist after testing, escalate to warranty service. [Elektroda, Krzysztof Kamienski, post #16993725]
What are the basic specs of the generator discussed here?
The thread centers on the Kraft & Dele KD136 genset, rated 7 HP with 3000/2800 W output. This helps you match procedures to the correct model class. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16990182]
Does a single owner report support the ground‑shutdown behavior?
Yes. The owner confirmed the engine shut down immediately when the sensor lead touched ground during testing. That validates the circuit. [Elektroda, domelk, post #16994044]
What’s the simplest path to resolution before returning the unit?
Check oil level, run the ground‑test, then perform an early oil change. One owner saw the lamp clear after these steps. If unresolved, seek replacement. [Elektroda, domelk, post #17474772]
