Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): poulan pro BVM200LE, spark plug gap, crank shaft

Question
Eric
I have the same problem with my poulan BVM200LE blower as the person with the PBV200. I was wondering is there a way to test the spark strength with a vom? When I spin the crank shaft it don't seem to spark all the time and the spark seems week.

Answer
Most repair manuals do not publish voltages for coils.  Todays coils either work or don't work.  I have only had one coil with a "weak" spark.

I have several tools for testing coils, some are really expensive but my favorite tool is an inexpensive inline spark tester.  BTW, this tool uses a .166 inch gap to simulate spark under compression.  The weak coil I mentioned would jump the spark plug gap, and shock you, but would not produce spark when using this tool.  The other tool I have cost almost $500 and allows you to read the voltage.  However, this tool rarely gets used.  I'm considering selling as the cheaper tool works great.


http://tewarehouse.com/19368

Eric