Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Cub Cadet ignition module, safety switches, head gasket

Question
I have a Cub Cadet model #2185 s/n 242858. It has a Kohler command 18hp engine model #CH18S-62509. I was recently running the mower and when I engaged the mower deck there was a power loss for a few moments and then it went back to normal. I used it the rest of the day with no problem. A couple days later I went to use the mower and on start up I felt a slight vibration. It seemed like it was running a little rough. I then engaged the mower deck and the vibration got really bad and the deck barely engaged, big power loss. I changed the spark plugs today and discovered that one cylinder is not firing, so the mower is basically running on one cylinder. Maybe the ignition module? Is it possible for one cylinder to fire and not the other? If it is the ignition module is it difficult to change? I would appreciate any help.  

Answer
Hello Jeff:

On this Engine there are 2 Ign Modules/Coils. To Check the Ign Coil; Remove the Spark Plug/s. Wrap a Wire Around the Threads of the Plug and Attach the Other End of the Wire to the Engine Block. Remove the Blower Housing (metal engine cover). The Wire that is Connected to the Coil/Ign Module from the Shut Off Switch needs to be Removed (unplugged) from the Coil/Ign Module. Now Check for Spark at the Plug. If Spark, then the Shut Off Switch or the Wire is Bad. If Still No Spark, then the Coil/Ign Module is Bad. If there are Safety Switches on this Unit and the Coil is Good; you Need to Check the Safety Switches for Being Bad Also. If the Coil is Good, then Check the Valve Clearance on the Dead Cylinder. A Rocker Arm May have Come Loose or a Push Tube May have Bent. The Head Gasket could be Blown between the Push Tube Galley and the Compression Chamber. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model and Spec Numbers. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. 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