Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Spark, air hammer, air gap

Question
I have Troybilt tiller, PONY. Don't know what engine is on it other than a briggs, pull rope in the front kind. Machine sat up for a few years in the barn with the air filter and front cover off exposing the flywheel and coil. Now I can't get fire from the spark plug, HELP!!!!!!!

Answer
Hi Dale,

Check the air gap between the coil and the flywheel it should be .012".
If the engine has points you will need to pull the flywheel off,  clean and gap them at .020" or replace them.
Use an impact wrench on the nut or a strap on the flywheel.  Don't put force on the cooling fins or they will break.  The recommended way to remove a flywheel is to use a puller.   An alternative, is to tap on the crankshaft top, with a brass hammer or use a punch tip on an air hammer.   The flywheel will need to be held up and supported or upward pressure applied with 2 large prybars. (A 2 person job.) Care is needed so the flywheel doesn't crack or bend.  Also be careful to not mushroom over
the crankshaft top.  
Re-install the flywheel after cleaning the tapers and re-tighten the nut to 65 ft/lbs.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael