Kohler Magnum 8 petrol engine starting problem?

I would suggest that there is water and debris in the mechanical fuel pump [under the carb.] and in the carb float bowl - and most likely the fuel tank too. The mechanical fuel pump will get gummed up - fuel flows from the tank - through the pump diaphram and into the carb. There is a screen in the pump assembly that will clog with debris. Two screws removes it from the engine block and four small screws open the pump to see the diaphram and screen. Blow them out and reassemble - Don't forget to empty the tank of old fuel which is most likely contaminated, also the float bowl! Is there an inline fuel filter - if so, check it - put on a new one after emptying the fuel tank and cleaning the carb float bowl.
Best of Luck,
Bill

B. Moose
May 2008