Kawasaki is one of the most renowned brands and industry-leading brands in the engine segment. Kawasaki produces some of the most high-quality and reliable engines out there in the market. The Kawasaki FR651V is one such engine produced by Kawasaki for mowers.
Even though the engine is pretty decent, it encounters some common problems over a period of years. For instance, sometimes it starts overheating, the charging system starts malfunctioning, low compression issue, fuel line issue, and so on.
This comprehensive guide will help you to fix all the common problems with your FR651V engine.
Quick Look at Kawasaki FR651V Problems and Solutions:
| Kawasaki FR651V Problems | Solutions |
| Overheating Problem | Use high-quality gasoline and clear the clogs. |
| Low Spark Issue | Replace the spark plug. |
| Charging System Malfunction | Use a hot wire from the B+ terminal to the main battery, where the voltage is lower. |
| Fuel Line Issue | Check fuel flow and reconnect the pipe. Use compressed air to clean the fuel lines. |
| Low Compression Issue | Tighten the spark plug. Replace or repair the damaged parts. |
Most Common Kawasaki FR651V Problems and Their Possible Solutions
1. Overheating Problem
Overheating is a common problem, as reported by many Kawasaki FR651V users. The overheating problem in Kawasaki FR651V occurs due to too much ethanol in the gasoline.
To identify this problem, you can simply look at the spark plug electrodes, which become thin due to excessive heat. If you notice that the spark plug has dampness and oily deposits, this indicates that there is oil leakage in the combustion chamber.
When the clogging happens in the engine, it becomes difficult for the fuel to flow properly, which can cause fuel delivery issues.
Solutions
To fix the overheating problem in the Kawasaki FR651V engine, you need to use high-quality gasoline. Make sure the gasoline is suitable for the engine.
Also, ensure that gasoline isn’t contaminated due to water, as it can cause moistness on the spark plug.
Lastly, you need to ensure that you remove all the clogs and fix the fuel flow in the engine.
2. Low Spark Issue
Another common problem in the Kawasaki FR651V engine is the low spark issue, which is usually caused by something that is preventing the coil voltage from the ignition coil from jumping across the gap at the end of the spark plug.
There are various causes for this problem, like spark loss, damaged spark plug, defective plug wiring, and so on.
To fix this issue, you need to understand why it takes place. The electrode of the spark plug fails to ignite because they are worn out. They get a coating of moisture and combustion deposits.
Apart from that, if there is a thick layer of black carbon deposited on the engine, it can cause excessive smoke emission as the carburetor mixture is too high.
Solutions
To fix this issue in the Kawasaki FR651V engine, you need to check the source of the issue. First, check the spark plug and ensure it is working properly. If you notice electrode wear or dry deposits on the plug, then you need to replace the spark plug.
3. Charging System Malfunction
Another common problem in the Kawasaki FR651V engine is the charging system malfunction. Many users have reported the Charging system malfunctioning in various online forums.
This problem occurs when you are ready to mow your lawn and find out that the engine is not starting because the battery is dead. It is very inconvenient and frustrating if you have to deal with a charging system malfunction.
There are many reasons for the charging system malfunction in the Kawasaki FR651V or if the battery is draining too fast. One of the most common of them is the loose battery connections. If the battery connections are loose or even dirty, the battery will have a continuous drain, which is a major problem.
Apart from that, if the charging system is faulty or the battery has some issues, it can also cause problems. On top of that, if the ignition key is turned on for an extended period, then it can also drain the battery, leading to the issue.
Solutions
To fix the charging system malfunctioning in Kawasaki FR651V, you need to use a hot wire from the B+ terminal of the battery and make sure the voltage is correct for the battery. The voltage of the B+ terminal should be lower than the voltage of the battery.
4. Fuel Line Issue
Fuel lines of any engine are important since they serve an essential purpose, to carry the fuel from the tank to the engine. If the fuel lines are damaged, you will experience a lack of fuel flow or uneven fuel flow to the engine.
The gasoline lines usually get clogged once they reach their lifespan, especially if you use low-grade fuel. But even in some cases, if you use high-quality fuel, the fuel line is likely to get clogged over the period since debris can accumulate in the fuel system.
Impurities, filth, or dirt in the fuel can not only contribute to building a gunk in the fuel system but can cause various other problems. A clogged fuel line can also cause engine failure or engine sputtering when the engine is operating.
Also, when the fuel lines are clogged, the engine’s solenoid won’t supply fuel to the carburetor, which can prevent the engine from starting.
Solutions
To fix this issue in the Kawasaki FR651V engine, you need to check a few things. First of all, check the fuel flow by opening the fuel supply pipe. If the fuel is coming properly, then reconnect the pipe and check if the issue resolves.
Apart from that, you can use compressed air from the fuel tank as it can clear out the blockage in the fuel lines. Also, clean the gasoline tank cap to ensure that blockage doesn’t happen again.
5. Low Compression Issue
The Kawasaki FR651V engine is a similar engine that is used in cars and other automobiles, and it also operates similarly. The FR651V relies on combustion to generate power.
Compression is important since it builds up inside the piston chamber when the mixture of the fuel and the air is compressed, followed by a spark. The spark ignites the mixture of fuel and air and creates an explosion that pushes the piston outward, which turns the crankshaft.
Compression loss happens when the pistons in the FR651V wear out or even when the seal of the piston has been deteriorating. On top of that, if the push rod is twisted, breaks, or bends, it can also cause low compression issues.
Solutions
First of all, check the spark plug and ensure the spark plug is tightly secured. You may reinstall it if needed and then restart the engine.
Then, check the cylinder head bolts and tighten them using a ratchet set, then again restart the engine.
After that, check the push rods and valve lifters and service or replace them as needed. Check the worn valves and piston rings using a compression tester. Lastly, check and replace the defective parts that are beyond repair.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
How Many Cylinders Are There in Kawasaki FR651V?
The Kawasaki FR651V has a total of 2 cylinders.
What is the maximum horsepower of the Kawasaki FR651V Engine?
The Kawasaki FR651V engine comes with 21.5 horsepower (16 kW) at 3,600 RPM.
How Many CC is the Kawasaki FR651V Engine?
The Kawasaki FR651V is a 726 CC engine.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Kawasaki FR651V is a reliable engine from a well-renowned brand, but it can come up with some common issues over the years. Most of these common issues can be easily resolved with a proper guide and toolkit.
If you are still struggling to repair your Kawasaki FR651V engine, then you are advised to call the mechanic for help, or else you will break the internals, which will be a costly repair or replacement.
