E18
Kubota High Engine Oil Temperature

Kubota generator shuts down with E18; controller indicates 'Oil Temperature High' or 'Engine Oil Overheat'.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Low engine oil level, Clogged oil cooler, Failed oil cooler thermostat (if equipped), Heavy overload causing excessive engine heat

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Allow the engine to cool fully before touching any oil lines or components. Hot oil can cause burns.

  • Check oil level: Verify oil level on the dipstick and top up with the correct Kubota-specified oil if low.
  • Inspect oil cooler: Locate the engine oil cooler (air-to-oil or coolant-to-oil). Clean external fins with compressed air and check for blocked coolant flow if integrated with the cooling system.
  • Check for overload: Review the load profile during the shutdown. If the generator was running at or above rated capacity for long periods, reduce load or upsize the generator.
  • Sensor check: Inspect the oil temperature sensor and wiring. Test sensor resistance vs. temperature and replace if out of specification.
  • Engine health: Persistent oil overheat may indicate internal engine issues (bearing wear, restricted oil passages) and should be evaluated by a Kubota service technician.
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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Engine Oil Cooler
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