Posted by Larry Rarus (72.192.36.15) on July 28, 2009 at 00:40:16:
In Reply to: Fairbanks-Morse Magneto posted by Chris R on July 27, 2009 at 22:49:22:
This is rudimentary troubleshooting, irrespective of the specific engine model. Yes, it could be the points and/or condenser. Make sure the points are gapped properly and you should also pass a fine file ( I bought a fingernail file for this purpose) through the gap to make sure all accumulated crud has been removed. Check that the points are opening and closing as the engine goes through its revolution. Probably least obvious but equally as critical (I've been bitten by this one before), make sure any remote "kill" device (i.e. ignition switch, blade engagement interlock, etc.) is not killing your spark. In other words, isolate the magneto from the mower, file and gap the points, be sure all connections are sound, and see what happens.