On kohler engine K301AS what does the AS designate?

The "AS" designation on the Kohler engine K301AS stands for "Alternating Starter". It indicates that this engine is equipped with an alternating starter system instead of a traditional recoil starter. An alternating starter system uses an electric starter motor to rotate the engine's crankshaft, rather than relying on manual pull-starting. This feature is commonly found in lawn mowers, generators, and other equipment that require reliable and convenient starting.