Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 318 John Deere Engine Miss, 318 john deere, john deere engine

Question
Hi, Great site! I have a 318 with a P218G Onan that upon start-up will only run on one cylinder.  Switched plugs, wires, no change.  Once both cylinders are firing, if I pull the plug wire for the right cylinder, the engine will die, if I pull the left wire, it will continue to run on the right cylinder.  I have a bad feeling about this!

Answer
Hello Greg:

Thanks for the Good Words. Usually this can be a Bad Coil, with Only 1 Lead Actually Firing the Plug, the Valves Require Resetting or are Burnt and Require re-Seating or Bad Rings. Check the Coil Lead and Make Sure the Plug is Firing. If the Plug is Firing, then Remove the Cylinder Head on the Dead cylinder and Inspect the Valves and Valve Seats. You May have to Remove the Valves to Fully Inspect the Seats. Make Sure the Valve Seats in the Engine are Secure and Not Moving Around in the Engine Block. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John