Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 3.5 HP Briggs Electrical Problem, hp briggs, resistance measurements

Question
I ran into an unseen stick with my lawnmower and it stopped
cold. Couldn't get it started again. Turns out I have no spark
from coil primary to ground. After disassembly, I found the key
almost sheared - about 1/16" displacement. Would this cause
no spark or is it likely that the coil is damaged? Are there typical
resistance measurements for the coil that could help verify
whether it is ok or not? The kill switch has been isolated and this
isn't the problem. The engine is a 3.5 HP B&S 935xx series
(1981 vintage) and has run great until the stick attack.

Thanks for any help.

Answer
Hi Bill,

The partially sheared key would cause an advanced timing condition but there should be spark.  I assumed that you replaced the key.  I don't know how to test a coil.  Re-check for spark again.  If still no spark, I would replace the coil.

Let me know what you find.
Michael