14-853-68-S Auto Choke Carburetor Kit Fit for Kohler Lawnmower XT675 XT6.75 XT650 XT6.5 with 14 083 15-S Air Filter 3071 3076 3085 3086 3035 3043 3045 3066 2034 2044 2063 2070

What It Is

This is a complete auto choke carburetor kit for Kohler XT-series lawn mower engines (XT675, XT6.75, XT650, XT6.5). It includes the carburetor with automatic choke, plus a 14-083-15-S air filter and necessary gaskets—ideal for replacing a worn or clogged carb that causes hard starting, surging, or stalling.

Fitment & Compatibility

• Engine models: Kohler XT675, XT6.75, XT650, XT6.5 (check your engine ID tag on the valve cover or shroud—these are vertical shaft engines, common on ride-on mowers and zero-turns).
• OEM cross-references: Replaces Kohler 14-853-68-S, 14 853 68-S, and similar. Also fits carb numbers 3071, 3076, 3085, 3086, 3035, 3043, 3045, 3066, 2034, 2044, 2063, 2070.
• What to measure: The mounting flange bolt spacing is standard for these XT engines—roughly 2.5" center-to-center. Confirm your old carb has the same pattern and that the fuel inlet nipple faces the same direction (typically left side when viewed from the front).
• Air filter compatibility: The included 14-083-15-S filter fits the same XT engines. If your mower uses a different filter housing, you may need to buy that separately.
• Not for: Kohler Courage, Command, or other series—only XT flathead engines.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: Aftermarket part, not OEM Kohler. Most users report it works well, but a few note the choke linkage may need slight bending for perfect alignment. Expect 80-90% of OEM reliability for a fraction of the cost.
• Installation difficulty: Moderate. You’ll need to remove the old carb, transfer the fuel line and governor spring, and adjust the auto choke linkage. Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, sockets) and a small pliers for the spring are required.
• Common gotcha: The auto choke mechanism is pre-set, but if the engine floods on cold start, the choke flap may be stuck shut. Check the choke plate moves freely before installing. Also, use the included gaskets—don’t reuse old ones.
• Air filter note: The included filter is foam or paper, depending on batch. Foam requires oiling; paper does not. If unsure, buy a separate paper filter for simplicity.

Should You Buy It

Buy this if your Kohler XT engine is hard to start, runs rough, or won’t stay running—and you want an affordable, complete kit that includes the air filter. It’s a solid budget alternative to a $50+ OEM carb, but be prepared for minor fitment tweaks. If you prefer a guaranteed bolt-on with zero adjustment, stick with the Kohler OEM part.