1. Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
2. Hold the spark plug wire close to the engine block (about 1/4 inch away).
3. Crank the engine and observe the spark plug wire.
- If there is a spark, the ignition system is working properly and the problem lies elsewhere.
- If there is no spark, the problem is with the ignition system.
Check the ignition coil:
If there is no spark, the ignition coil may be faulty.
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the ignition coil.
2. Remove the two bolts that hold the ignition coil in place.
3. Pull the ignition coil straight up to remove it from the engine.
4. Inspect the ignition coil for any damage or cracks.
- If the ignition coil is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Check the spark plug:
1. Remove the spark plug from the engine.
2. Inspect the spark plug for any damage or fouling.
- If the spark plug is damaged or fouled, replace it with a new one.
Check the spark plug wire:
1. Inspect the spark plug wire for any damage or cracks.
- If the spark plug wire is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Check the ignition timing:
1. Make sure that the engine is at Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke.
2. Remove the spark plug.
3. Insert a spark plug tester into the spark plug hole.
4. While cranking the engine, observe the spark plug tester.
- If the spark occurs before the piston reaches TDC, the ignition timing is advanced.
- If the spark occurs after the piston reaches TDC, the ignition timing is retarded.
5. Adjust the ignition timing as necessary.
Check the carburetor:
1. Remove the air filter from the carburetor.
2. Inspect the carburetor for any dirt or debris.
- If the carburetor is dirty, clean it with carburetor cleaner.
3. Check the carburetor float level.
- If the float level is incorrect, adjust it as necessary.
4. Check the fuel flow to the carburetor.
- If the fuel flow is restricted, clean the fuel tank and fuel line.
Check the battery:
1. Check the battery voltage with a voltmeter.
- If the battery voltage is below 12 volts, charge the battery.
2. If the battery is not holding a charge, replace it with a new one
