Can not get spark.

W

Who Pooted

Cadet
Joined
Jul 21, 2012
Messages
14
Guys,
Spark was great on top cylinder, but weak on bottom cylinder. So i did a complete overhaul with new gaskets on everything on the motor as well as replacing everything on the magneto. Problem is now i can't get spark on top or bottom cylinder now. I've made sure the gap is set to 0.020, and no wires are exposed/grounded. I've seen that people have recommended cleaning the points to make sure they are free of oil/dirt. Is that what the little black square of paper that came along with the point kit from iboats is for? If not, what should i use? I'm hoping that maybe the grease from the feeler gauge is whats causing my fouled start.

Thanks,
Adam
 
D

Daviet

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Sep 24, 2008
Messages
8,958
Re: Can not get spark.

Adam
You might want to post the model number of the engine you are working on so that everybody will know what it is.:D
 
HighTrim

HighTrim

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jun 21, 2007
Messages
10,486
Re: Can not get spark.

That is exactly what the paper is for.

I like to use acetone to clean the points after they are all adjusted, and blank clean business cards.
 
W

Who Pooted

Cadet
Joined
Jul 21, 2012
Messages
14
Re: Can not get spark.

Sorry model number FD-14 1960 Johnson 18hp Seahorse.

I will try the black paper/acetone business card. Could the problem be that simple?
 
D

Daviet

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Sep 24, 2008
Messages
8,958
Re: Can not get spark.

Could be, make sure the point gap is correct when the rubbing block is aligned with the key in the points cam.
Double check the wiring making sure that you did not rub the insulation off with the flywheel.
Did you get the coils adjusted properly, even with the mounting bosses?
 
W

Who Pooted

Cadet
Joined
Jul 21, 2012
Messages
14
Re: Can not get spark.

I mis-spoke earlier when i said i replaced everything on the magneto, I did not replace the coils. They were in perfect shape so i left them untouched. The new parts are condensers, points, and wick. They are still in their original position even with the bosses. The problem i was having prior to the overhaul was weak spark and water in the lower cylinder. That's when i replaced all gaskets on the motor and decided to get new points/condensers.
I will double check the gap on the points as well as giving them a good clean job. I didn't see any signs of wear on any of the wires.

Thanks again.
 
Bosunsmate

Bosunsmate

Admiral
Joined
Apr 7, 2012
Messages
6,135
Re: Can not get spark.

i left a slight sheen of wd40 wet tissue paper on one point once and it stopped spark ; it was invisible to the eye until i lifted it off with a blade
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top