My rototiller won't start and run. If I spray cold start it will turn over but it won't run. I have changed the starter pulley, the spark plug and Changed the gas. The filter looks good. Can my pulley string be too long? The reason I ask is that it dosen't retract fully after I pull it. Could this be the problem? I have a Sear Craftmen 5 hp front tiller, Briggs & Stratton engine.

Michael, July 2007

Chances are the ignition coil went out. Pull the spark plug out, put the plug wire back on it. Put the spark plug on the spark plug hole or where you can ground out the plug on the chassis of the motor and pull the rope. If you don't see a spark, you will need to replace the ignition coil or send it to a local Small engine shop to have the coil replaced. The coil should cost between 25 to 45 bucks

best of luck, and oh yeah, Ignition coils for briggs motors are a common place as I've done plenty of them. So don't feel bad if yours went out. The other thing is to check the grounding wire for the coil. It's a small thin black wire that comes off the coil, it may be touching the chassis of the motor and that will prevent a spark.

David, July 2007