spark problem

[wildbill77]

I have a sears elgin, mod# 571.58401 small outboard. I don't know horsepower. It has plenty of fire in the wire when holding the spark plug and grounding yourself on the frame while someone pulls the cord.<br /> The problem is, it won't spark the plug. I've put the plug in my mower and it runs fine. Can anyone give me a clue on what to try. Also what kind of mixture do I need on the fuel. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[hcrumbie]

Re: spark problem

Is this the air cooled variety of Sears motor? Lemme know...if so, I've had one up and running for a few years now.<br /><br />RR

 

[wildbill77]

Re: spark problem

I couldn't tell you if it had a water pump or not.

 

[StillFishin']

Re: spark problem

I had a similar problem with an old LawnBoy 2 cycle "loafer"(kinda of a forerunner of an ATV) that drove me nuts. Had spark when grounding and cranking. Tried everything even replaced shaft seals. Finaly boiled it down to the coil. Bought a new one and that was it!<br /><br />Good Luck<br />tillFishin'

 

[Boatist]

Re: spark problem

WildBill<br />Take an old plug and gap to 3/8 of and inch. Use a battery charger type connector to hold plug base and ground wire to block. Move a spark plug wire to this spark plug and crank. If spark does not jump then you have a spark problem. I do not see the year of motor but sounds like a old motor. Old motor almost all had points and condenser. I would change both and try again.

 

[dkondelik]

Re: spark problem

if i understand your description, sounds like the plug wire may be worn/cracked. If so, path of least resistance when you hold, is you. path of least resistance with plug may very well be from plug wire core, arcing to some place on motor/block.<br /><br />try carefull inspection/monitor of plug wire while turning motor IN THE DARK. you may very well see where the "juice" is arcing.<br /><br />Good Luck<br />HAVE FUN!

 

[mellowyellow]

Re: spark problem

you can look up model info & oil mix here:<br /> http://home.earthlink.net/~brixent/ <br />they also sell service and parts manuals.<br />good luck,<br />M.Y.