Briggs & Stratton 4 HP Engine not sparking (Cylinder Mower)
#1
06-24-13, 12:54 AM
Briggs & Stratton 4 HP Engine not sparking (Cylinder Mower)
Picked up a lawnmower on ebay which will not start. There is no spark being generated but can't figure out why. The mower is in a good mechanical state, so a worthy project and was hoping someone could spare the time to help me get this fine machine cutting grass again. Regards John 
#2
06-24-13, 04:56 AM
Group Moderator
First, you did not say what make & model you have so it's impossible to give specific advice.
Make sure the coil is not grounded which is what's done to turn the mower off. It could be as simple as the switch being bad. Next I would try a new spark plug or test for spark at the end of the spark plug wire. If still no spark it is possible that the coil is bad.
Make sure the coil is not grounded which is what's done to turn the mower off. It could be as simple as the switch being bad. Next I would try a new spark plug or test for spark at the end of the spark plug wire. If still no spark it is possible that the coil is bad.
#3
06-24-13, 05:50 AM
Thank you for your prompt reply and apologies for being vague but now have guidance on how to identify the mower and will post the details as soon as I can.
#4
06-24-13, 06:50 AM
Remove the kill wire from the coil and see if you have spark, the kill wire is on the bottom of the coil and is a very small black wire,,,,,if you have spark, then the kill wire is grounded some where, if no spark after removing kill wire, replace coil.
#5
06-24-13, 08:25 PM
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What is a "Cylinder Mower"??? Is this a reel type?? If so, is it old enough to have points?? If you post the engine # the pros here will be able to tell you how to make it electronic ignition,,as you may have an issue with points,,, Roger
#9
06-26-13, 03:56 AM
Thanks for the advice. I am still trying to source a repair manual so would appreciate some advice how to remove the flywheel. Do I ned a puller? Regards John
#10
06-26-13, 04:38 AM
Group Moderator
I generally do not use a puller. After the bolt is removed I start with gentle taps with a plastic or dead blow hammer while pulling on the flywheel. Always be mindful to not bend the crank shaft. I moderately tap around the perimeter of the flywheel to help it break free and tap straight down on a bolt in the end of the crank. Usually it comes off but if it does not I go for a puller.
#11
06-26-13, 04:59 AM
After you get the recoil clutch off, you can lightly tap flywheel off with hammer. No bolts involved the recoil clutch holds flywheel on. Be aware that the flywheel key will come out also, make sure to get that back in when putting it back together. Good luck.
