QuestionI have an old Snapper rider with a Tecumsa TVM 140...It's been working fine. Replaced the plug this year. Today won't start. Should I get spark by just turning engine by hand? Doesn't seem to be any spark. Or do I need to spin it faster?
Magnet and coil look OK. How would I test them? Are there points and condenser? Under flywheel, right? Is it OK to hold engine by air fins on flywheel, like with a big screwdriver, to get the flywheel bolt off? Could it be electronic ignition? How could I tell? What could it be if it is electronic ignition?
Thanks, Warren
AnswerHi Warren,
The engine needs to spin kind of fast to spark. Using a helper is easiest. Check for a defective handle operated safety switch.
The coil should be under the flywheel. If it is electronic ignition there would no points. Points, if equipped, are located under the flywheel. 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
