Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Small Engine Repair, air filter element, spark plug wire

Question
I have a 3 year old Sears Blower/Vac.  It has a 2 cycle, 22 cc engine. I was blowing my driveway last week and the engine sputtered once, ran for few minutes then quit. The fuel level was good, there was fuel reaching the cylinder (I believe) and the spark plug was good. I pulled the unit apart and am ready to reassemble it but would like to test the electronic ignition but do not know how.  Can you help?

My dad told me to adjust the air gap which I did; I adjusted it to the thickness of two $1 bills. (???) Thank you.

Bob Holmes
225 445 3513
bobsafety@aol.com  

Answer
Without special equipment.  The best way to test the electronic ignition is to put the spark plug in the spark plug wire layette against the cylinder head and pull the rope.  There should be spark at the gap.

One of the things that can cause what you described is a plugged fuel cap vent.  Vacuum from the fuel system has to vent someplace. Be sure to clean the air filter element, or just replace it.  If any gaskets are damaged or the least bit questionable, replace them.  There is an isolator block that the carburetor months to before it bounced to the engine.  These can warp.  If you have spark.  It has to be fuel related.  Your father is correct on gapping the coil.  The gap should be.0.o10".  I hope this will help.