7-4
IGNITION SYSTEM
The ignition system consists of the flywheel magnet
and two ignition coil assemblies (magnetos) with in-
tegral spark plug cables and boots (Figure 7-3) and
two spark plugs.
If the engine does not start:
1. Secure the spark plug cables on the spark
plugs if they have come off.
2. Remove and examine the Spark Plugs and re-
place, if necessary. Check and reset the gap to
0.025 inch (0.06 mm).
3. Conduct the Spark Check.
4. Replace faulty ignition coil/cable assemblies
and set the air gaps.
Spark Plugs
The spark plugs must be in good condition and have
the proper gap for top engine performance.
To prevent cross threading, always thread a spark
plug in by hand until it seats and then torque to
10 lbs-ft (13 N-m) if new, or to 18 lbs-ft (24 N-m) if
being reused.
If the engine misses or performance otherwise dete-
riorates, remove and examine the spark plugs for
signs of the following problems:
Light tan, gray or reddish deposits – Normal
One spark plug fouled – Broken spark plug cable,
low cylinder compression
Soot fouled – Wrong spark plug heat range (too
cold), duty cycle too short for engine to reach normal
operating temperature
Fuel fouled – Wrong spark plug heat range (too
cold), faulty choke operation, overly rich fuel mix-
ture, dirty air filter
Oil fouled – Malfunctioning crankcase breather,
worn rings, worn valve guides or seals
Burned Or Overheated – Leaking intake manifold
gaskets, lean fuel mixture
Worn – Spark plug service life used up.
Spark Check
1. Remove the spark plugs, reconnect the spark
plug cables and ground the side electrodes to
bare metal on the engine.
WARNING
Gasoline and LPG are flam-
mable and explosive and can cause severe
personal injury or death. Make certain that
no flammable fumes are present and that
the area is well ventilated. Leave the genset
compartment door open for several min-
utes before performing this test.
2. Do not touch the spark plug or cable during test-
ing. Crank the engine and look for spark across
each plug. If spark is weak or inconsistent
across either plug, replace the plug with a new
one. If spark still is weak or inconsistent, see
Ignition Coils (Magnetos).
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