Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler engine no start, oil pressure switch, safety switches

Question
Hi. We have a 1986 Wheel Horse 312 series with the 12HP Kohler engine. It all of a sudden will not start. Ran fine the day before, and the next day, now it will not start at all. It will crank, but does not try to fire. We have replaced the coil, spark plug, condensor, and points. We have power to the coil, but no spark. All the safety switches appear to be functioning. I was thinking the oil pressure switch is bad, but if I jump the wires to bypass it, the engine still will not start. We are also getting plenty of fuel to it, for if we crank it enough, you can smell the fuel and it drips out of the carb. Please help..I am going nuts trying to fix this!! What am I missing in the electrical ignition system?  Thanks!!!


Answer
Hi Brian,

A tough one!  It seems that you have checked and thought of everything.  I can't think of anything else. All I can say is to re-check it all and don't assume anything.  Things like a switch, that you think may ground out to kill the engine,  may actually unground to kill.  Trace the power and ground at the coil and check the plug wire.

Let me know how you make out

Good Luck,
Michael