Hi Michael-- There are a number of things that could prevent your plug from sparking. Here are some things to check before you replace the mag.: 1) Make sure all control switches are turned to the 'on' or 'run' position. 2) Check the ignition wire's connection to the spark plug. The round clamp that meets the spark plug can sometimes loosen over time. You can tighten it by first disconnecting the spark plug, then gently crimping the end of the ignition wire that grabs the top of the spark plug with a pair of pliers and refitting it to the spark plug. 3) Is there a kill switch or a grounding lug that is stuck to ground, preventing the plug from firing? Sometimes those metal tabs that ground out the plug get bent into the 'off' position. 4) Are all the electrical connections clean and snug? 5) Are the flywheel magnets dirty? Roughing them up with sandpaper and wiping them down with some solvent is sometimes all you need to generate a better spark. 6) Check that the points are properly timed and gapped. Even if they are good, improper gapping can leave you without spark. They should be about a matchbook's thickness apart at top dead center. --Hope this helps, Joe
Answers & Comments
Hi Michael--
There are a number of things that could prevent your plug from sparking. Here are some things to check before you replace the mag.:
1) Make sure all control switches are turned to the 'on' or 'run' position.
2) Check the ignition wire's connection to the spark plug. The round clamp that meets the spark plug can sometimes loosen over time. You can tighten it by first disconnecting the spark plug, then gently crimping the end of the ignition wire that grabs the top of the spark plug with a pair of pliers and refitting it to the spark plug.
3) Is there a kill switch or a grounding lug that is stuck to ground, preventing the plug from firing? Sometimes those metal tabs that ground out the plug get bent into the 'off' position.
4) Are all the electrical connections clean and snug?
5) Are the flywheel magnets dirty? Roughing them up with sandpaper and wiping them down with some solvent is sometimes all you need to generate a better spark.
6) Check that the points are properly timed and gapped. Even if they are good, improper gapping can leave you without spark. They should be about a matchbook's thickness apart at top dead center.
--Hope this helps, Joe