Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh OHV12 no spark, starter switch, wire terminal

Question
Ranch King by MTD OHV-12 202701A, ser30710...Cranks, getting fuel, but, cannot get any spark. Unsure of how ignition system operates. Could the starter switch cause this?

Answer
The starter switch is probably not the problem.  Most likely a safety swith is not functioning correctly causing the "no spark" condition.

If you follow the wires from the ignition switch to the engine you should find a circuit with one wire connected to a location on the engine block.  This should be a spade push-on type connection.  This should be the ignition ground wire.  Dis-connect the wire, remove the spark plug.

With the spark plug removed, crank the engine and check for spark.  If you have spark then there is a safety switch not working correctly.

On the wiring, you will also trace one or two circuits to the alternaor/charging system and the starting circuit.  The wire you are looking for is usually black and should only be one wire.  The other side of the circuit or wire terminal should run up iside the engine housing.

Let me know what you find.
Eric