Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Deere 170 no spark, continuity tester, sectional index

Question
John,
I have an older Deere 170 riding mower that cranks but will not start.  I am getting no spark.  I've called my local Deere dealer and he suggested the "igniter" - an $80, non-returnable part.  What does this tiny device with only one lead on it do?  I put a continuity tester on the coil and get no reading on the high voltage side, ie. plug to ground - is this normal?  I do get a make and break on the leads going under the flywheel - I assume connected to points or a stator.  Can you direct me to a site that explains the Deere ignition system?  Thanks for volunteering on this forum!

Answer
 Hello Dave:

 From your Description it does Sound like the Igniter is Bad. You can View this Mower at this Addy http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the model Numbers. Then Select your Model from the Search Results Area. Then Select Sectional Index. Then Select Engine. The Ignitor is Diagram # 2. The Ignitor is the Ignition Module. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John