Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh Engine, 8hp tecumseh engine, safety switches

Question
I have an 8HP Tecumseh Engine, HM 80, that will not start. I found that there was no sparke to the plug so I replaced the solid state magneto or electronic igniton. In my day we called it a coil, though the issue is the gap setting. Prior to removing the old coil I measured the gap at .006" and when I put the new one in I put it at .006" and am still not getting any sparke at the plug. When I looked closer at the old coil I noticed that it was preety rusty. Now I am wondering what the gap setting should be. When I try and turn over the engine I can see an electrical plus being produced by my meter. So I am assuming the gab is way off. What do you think?

Thanks,

George

Answer
The easiest way to set the gap would be to use a business card or a photograph.  If you have access to microfiche that is what dealers used to set it.  When you say there was a lot of rust on the old coil did you clean the mounting posts so you got could  ground for the new coil if not go back in remove the coil clean the post and then remount the coil.  The next thing to check would be where the sole wire attaches typically some part of the throttle control lever rounds out the system when the lever is moved to stop.  Depending upon what the engine is used on there could be safety switches not letting the engine start.  I hope this information is but a help good luck.