Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton Points, briggs and stratton, briggs stratton

Question
I have a very old tiller that has a briggs engine on it and I can't get any spark.  I currently have the carb and gas tank off for cleaning.  I have inspected the points and they seem to be good.  I was wondering what the gap is supposed to be on the points?  Also, how far should the magneto be from the flywheel?  The model # is: 130202; type #: 0405-01; and the code is: 76040507.  Thanks!  John

Answer
John:

Replace the coil with a solid state module and this will take care of your problem.  There will be no need to mess with the points at this point.  It sounds like you may need to replace the armature anyway.

If you decide to put points in it, set them at .20inch.  The magneto/coil or armature air gap as Briggs and Stratton would call it will be sufficient if you simply put a business card between the flywheel and the armature.  If you buy a solid state armature it will come with an adjustment gauge with it. I don't have the exact armature specs handy at this time since it is an older engine... Built on April 5, 1976 to be exact! BUT if you really need them i can get them for you..drop me a followup note

397358 is the solid state ignition coil part number for your engine