i have a power devil petrol lawn mower 3.5hp (seriel No 07010001295) (model No sl1p60f) its been stood a while, theres no spark when i took spark plug out and put it in the dizzy cap. could it just need a new spark plug or could there some other problem. any help very much appretiated, thanks

danny, October 2008

I just saved one of these from the tip (hope it wasn't your one!).
This one also didn't spark when I pulled the starter cord.
I found there is a wire from the ignition coil, going to 2 switches.
The first switch is operated by putting the speed control into the "start" position, the other switch is operated by squeezing the drive handle. Both switches must be open otherwise the spark won't happen.
If you are putting the lever to "start" and squeezing the drive handle when starting, but you still don't get a spark, maybe one of the switches has failed. Or perhaps the cables from the controls have stretched and don't move the levers enough.
Test it by disconnecting the wire from the coil (it's a small spade connector, not the big wire that goes to the spark plug) putting a ohm meter on the wire and to the engine block. when in "start" and the drive lever pulled, there should be no circuit from the wire to the engine block.

Steve, September 2010

It doesnt start up

ray charles, March 2009

Put fresh fuel in and change the spark plug

Richard, November 2008

Do you have the metal body of the plug touching earth/engine block? Not the point but the side of the plug if not you won't see it spark. Another or easier test is the plug attachment mechanics use a neon tester take plug to car shop and ask if the have one suitable to fit the plug you can then test it in situe. would be idea to buy a new plug anyway. Hope this helps.

bob, October 2008