Kohler TES, TLS Automatic Transfer Switches Operation and Installation Manual (tp5659)

These Kohler TES/TLS automatic transfer switches sit between your utility feed and generator, usually in commercial buildings, plants, or critical facilities where power loss is expensive. This manual is what I keep handy when I’m installing a new switch, verifying the operating sequence, or chasing down why a unit isn’t transferring back to utility after the grid returns. For example, if a switch hesitates or chatters during transfer, this document helps you trace the control logic, check settings, and confirm the wiring is landed where it should be.

Applications & Use Cases

• Install a new TES/TLS switch correctly, with proper mounting, wiring routes, and field terminations.
• Verify operating behavior after startup tests so the switch transfers cleanly between utility and generator.
• Troubleshoot nuisance trips or failure to transfer, isolating whether the issue is control, sensing, or mechanical.
• Confirm control connections for remote start, alarms, and building management interfaces before energizing.
• Support parts replacement, helping you identify which components belong in your exact TES/TLS configuration.

FAQ

Q: Can I keep this manual on a tablet in the electrical room?

A: Yes, a digital copy works well; you can zoom diagrams and search terms while standing at the switch.

Q: Should I still print parts of it?

A: I’d print the wiring and setup pages you use most, so you can mark notes and keep them in the switch cabinet.

Safety Note

Always isolate all power sources, lock out, and verify zero energy before opening or working inside the transfer switch.

Kohler TES, TLS Automatic Transfer Switches Index:

SUBJECT PAGE SUBJECT PAGE
Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
Glossary of Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
Section 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Scope and Purpose of Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Purpose of Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
List of Related Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Arrangement of Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Automatic Transfer Switch Description . . . . . 1-1
Purpose of Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Components of Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Sequence of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Section 2. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Ratings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Section 3. Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Upon Receipt of Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Mechanical Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Lifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Electrical Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Power Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Start Generator Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Other Accessory Connections . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Section 4. Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Switches and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Automatic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Manual Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Section 5. Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Program Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Other Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Section 6. Diagrams & Drawings . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Enclosure Drawings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

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