Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): victa commando lawn mower, engine model type, spark plug wire

Question
QUESTION: I have a problem starting victa commando lawn mower, I have changed the plug, serviced the cuberator and tested in other of my similar mower. compression seems all right.

I feel something is wrong with ignitions because it says electronic ignition. how check the ingnition or any idea what could be the problem.

ANSWER: If you remove the spark plug, then re-connect it to the spark plug wire and ground the metal tip of the plug to the metal engine casing and pull the string you should see spark.

This test is pretty accurate, that is, if you see spark most of the time the ignition is fine.

There are also inline spark testers with a .166 of an inch gap that simulate spark under compression condtions.  

Another troubleshooting trick it to remove the air filter and spray starting fluid directly into the carb.  If the mower starts the ignition is working properly.

Let me know what you find.
Eric

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QUESTION: Hi Eric

yeah the spark is there and tried starting by pulling the air filter out and spraying fluid there and even tried by putting fluid in the plug and in the cuberator but it still wont start. I cant really figure out the problem. the problem and let me wondering why it doesnt start.

ANSWER: If you have spark and fuel then the issue has to be either compression or timing.

What brand of engine is on the mower?  What is the engine model, type/spec and code/serial number?
Let me know.
Eric

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Eric
the mower is australian made Victa commando, 2 stoke  with power torque and electronic ignition. the  number is EN 728047 and EN 72515 A could be found on the mower.

I feel you are right, its the timing because everything looks fine, just it cant start. i would please to know how to check timing and correct it.

Thanks
Prasad

Answer
2 cycles are a lot different than 4 cycles.  The only timing you can have is the flywheel key and ignition system.  Have you checked the key to ensure it is not sheared.

Compression on 2 cycles is critical.  Have you taken a compression reading?

Airleaks can also cause the not to start.  If the lower crankcase seal(s) are leaking the gas/oil mix can escape through the leak causing them not to start.

Finally, a really stopped up/plugged muffler can cause problems but usually the engine will start.

Since the unit will not start with starting fluid I suspect the compression it too low for the engine to start.  Most 2 cycles need 90 PSI to run properly.  

Check the compression and let me know what you find.
Eric