I just replaced basically all the starting components on my 5hp briggs tiller. Now i get spark until it fires once then dies, on the next pull there is no(or very little) spark. If i take off the flywheel and access the breaker points, then put everything together again, i will get spark until it fires, then i lose my spark and have to start over again. I am at an utter loss, please help.

Shawn, January 2009

There are several possibilities ;-

1) Open condensor (replace)
2) Dirty points (replace)
3) Intermittant coil (possible but rare)

I would suggest replacing your points and condensor with a retro-fit electronic conversion module. This will eliminate the possibility of dirty points now and forever.

Alternatively, if the coil is mounted OUTSIDE the flywheel, replace the whole coil unit with a later electronic version.

Neither option is expensive.

If you need detailed instructions, let me know.

phil_saunders@bigfoot.com

Phil Saunders, January 2009