Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): coil, electronic ignition modules, auto parts stores

Question
in response to you email reply on my coil problem,the engine in question at high rpm it pop,backfires,pop thur carb.and dies.if i slow the rpm down it will continue to run. have check the spark and it is intermittent, have tested coil for resistance seem ok, have contact point under the flywheel,haven't tested this,don't know how.have disconected the kill wire.has a slight miss at idle speed.
thank you kindly for your help and good advice, sambaylor@yahoo.com ps this is a 1981 b&s engine

Answer
Dirty or wore points will cause it to pop and backfire as you described.  You can replace the points, condenser and inspect the plunger but I would recommend using one of those electronic ignition modules.

You can find them at many auto parts stores and almost any small engine dealer.  

I usually use the cheapest module I can find.  I have even used modules from other equipment...haven't found any that didn't work.  Briggs sells a kit you can use but you have to solder one wire.  The after market modules usually can be installed with a small wire nut.

You may want to check the flywheel key as this can cause some popping also.  You can remove the flywheel nut with an impact gun and check the flywheel and crankshaft keyways are lined up.

Let me know if this helps.
Eric