[sluggermike]

I know the gas is good because I used it the day before it stopped running. I tried squirting engine started down the carb and into the cylinder head. Normally in the past it would try to start. I checked the spark plug for a spark and noticed that it was giving a weak spark. I cleaned the magneto and the place it contact on the flywheel and then reset the gap using a business card. I then check the plug for a spark. The spark was still weak. I'm beginning to wonder if the magneto is bad, or if there is another contact like a ground that needs to be cleaned. A new magneto costs about $50 and so I'm not looking forward to replace it. Any ideas?

 

[CStateMower]

Hi,

Although somewhat rare, I've had experiences in the past where a spark plug would fire weakly when removed and grounded to the engine block. When the spark plug was re-installed, the plug would not fire under compression.

If you haven't already done so, replace the spark plug...

Mark P.
Central State Mower, LLC

 

[AandPDan]

Can you post the numbers off the cowling?

If it was built before about '82 it may have points. They can get dirty and a bad condenser can cause a weak spark.