The Kohler Courage 19, a popular 19-horsepower single-cylinder engine used in many lawn tractors and residential zero-turn mowers, has a straightforward oil system. However, many owners remain unsure about the correct oil capacity and recommended oil type.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know, including a full oil capacity chart for all Kohler Courage 19 models.
Kohler Courage 19 Oil Capacity Chart
The Kohler Courage 19 oil capacity is typically 1.9 quarts (1.8 liters) with an oil filter and 1.6 quarts (1.5 liters) without a filter, regardless of whether the engine is the SV590, SV591, or other 19 HP Courage variants. Kohler recommends using SAE 10W-30 for most mowing conditions, with 5W-30 synthetic preferred for cold climates and 10W-40 or 15W-40 synthetic for hotter environments.
| Engine Model | Engine Type | Oil Capacity (With Filter) | Oil Capacity (Without Filter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kohler Courage 19 (SV590) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (SV591) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (SV600) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (SV601) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (SV610 / SV610S) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (SV620) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (Command-Pro Variant) | Single-cylinder | 2.0 quarts (1.9 L) | 1.7 quarts (1.6 L) |
| Kohler Courage 19 (OEM Branded Models) | Single-cylinder | 1.9 quarts (1.8 L) | 1.6 quarts (1.5 L) |
The engine oil should be changed every 50 hours, or more frequently in dusty or heavy-load conditions, and common oil filters for these engines include Kohler 12-050-01, 12-050-08, and 52-050-02.
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Best Oil Type for Kohler Courage 19
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1. Kohler Engine Oil 10W-30 Synthetic Blend
- OEM-approved oil designed specifically for Kohler small engines
- Synthetic-blend formula provides strong protection in both hot and cold conditions
- Helps reduce engine wear and maintain clean internal components
- Ideal for routine maintenance and ensures maximum compatibility with Kohler Courage engines
2. Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 10W-30
- High-performance full synthetic oil offering excellent thermal stability
- Provides superior wear protection, even under heavy load or extended use
- Enhances cold-weather starting and maintains viscosity in high temperatures
- Great option for users who want premium, long-lasting engine protection
3. STP Premium Small Engine 4-Cycle Oil SAE 10W-30
- Formulated specifically for lawn mowers and outdoor power equipment
- Delivers reliable protection for small engines operating in varied conditions
- Helps prevent sludge buildup and maintains engine cleanliness
- A practical, budget-friendly choice that still meets Kohler’s recommended viscosity
Kohler recommends SAE 10W-30 for most mowing conditions. However, climate can influence which oil performs best:
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Best Oils by Temperature
- 0°F (-18°C) and below: 5W-30 synthetic
- 0–90°F (-18°C to 32°C): 10W-30
- Above 90°F (32°C+): 10W-40 or 15W-40 synthetic
Owner’s Tip:
Synthetic oil provides better protection, improved cold starts, and longer life between changes.
How to Check Oil Level on a Kohler Courage 19
- Park the mower on a flat surface.
- Turn off the engine and let it cool for at least 2–3 minutes.
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert fully and pull it out again to read the oil level.
- Oil should be between the ADD and FULL marks.
- Add oil slowly to avoid overfilling, which may cause smoking or leaking.
Related Kohler Engine Spec Number Chart(For ALL Models)
How to Change Oil on a Kohler Courage 19
Follow these steps for a clean and efficient oil change:
Tools You Need
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- New engine oil (1.9 quarts max)
- New oil filter
- Socket wrench
- Shop rag
Steps
- Warm up the engine for 2–3 minutes. Warm oil drains better.
- Turn off the engine and remove the spark plug wire for safety.
- Locate the oil drain plug or drain valve (varies by mower).
- Place the drain pan under the opening and remove the plug.
- Allow oil to drain completely (2–5 minutes).
- Remove and replace the oil filter.
- Reinstall the drain plug securely.
- Add new oil using a funnel, start with 1.7 quarts, then check the dipstick and top up to full (usually 1.9 quarts total).
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
- Start the engine and check for leaks.
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Symptoms of Low or Incorrect Oil Level
Running a Kohler Courage 19 with an improper oil level can cause serious engine damage. Watch for:
- Excessive engine noise or knocking
- Oil-burning smell
- Blue exhaust smoke
- Overheating
- Loss of power
If any of these occur, stop mowing and check the oil level immediately.
FAQs
How much oil does a Kohler Courage 19 take?
Most Kohler Courage 19 engines take 1.9 quarts with a new filter or 1.6 quarts without replacing the filter.
What type of oil goes in a Kohler 19 HP engine?
Kohler recommends SAE 10W-30, but synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-40 may be used depending on temperature.
Does a Kohler Courage 19 need synthetic oil?
Synthetic oil isn’t required, but it delivers better protection, smoother operation, and improved performance.
How often should I change the oil?
Change the oil every 50 hours, or every 25 hours in dusty or heavy-use environments.
What is the oil filter for a Kohler Courage 19?
Common filters include Kohler 12-050-01, 12-050-08, and 52-050-02, depending on the model.
