Tecumseh H60. No spark

[1974-B-80 52]

My Tecumseh H60 won't start. It has no spark. I cleaned the points, gapped to .020" and a new spark plug gapped to 0.30". What could it be?

[SousaKerry 502]

Well it is a Tecumseh so some would say that is the first problem....

 

That being said if you have reset the points then you have had the flywheel off already, how did the magnets look?  Did they still have a good amount of magnetism left?  How long has it been since it had a new set of points and condenser, they may look fine but I always replace them when I have a problem.  Check the wiring for any bear spots or gaps in the insulation where it may be grounding out,

 

Download the manual located in the files section and make sure the timing is set properly, 

 

Also check the condition of the coil, and the laminated metal stator, if rust has separated the layers it will not work as well.

Edited April 29, 2013 by Sousakerry2

[SousaKerry 502]

http://www.wheelhorseforum.com/files/file/665-engine-tecumseh-l-head-3-11hp-service-manualpdf/

 

Link to service manual

[1974-B-80 52]

I didn't even think of checking how strong the magnets were. They looked good but I'll check them.

[1974-B-80 52]

The magnets are really strong. I just re did some wires that were bad. Hopefully it will run now.

[1974-B-80 52]

It still won't run. Should I just buy a whole new points system?

[1974-B-80 52]

Will the points system in a 12 hp Tecumseh work?

[SousaKerry 502]

Not sure on that one but, points are available from any small engine shop or on the internet at sites such as, www.rcpw.com, www.mfgsupply.com, www.jacksmallengine.com

[pfrederi 18,564]

30547A points

30548B condenser

[1974-B-80 52]

Ok. I do know both those websites. I'll either order a new one or try the 12 tech points since I'm getting one next week.

Thanks guys

[wheeledhorseman 579]

Just a thought and it's a quick thing to do if you haven't tried it already.

Remove the wire (that comes from the ignition switch) that shuts off the engine by effectively shorting out the points. I had a no spark prob with a V80 and discovered in the end that the ignition switch had gone faulty. It was 'killing' the ignition even in the run position.

Before trying this be aware that if it does run you will need to pull the plug lead off to stop it.

Andy

[1974-B-80 52]

Yeah I disconnected all the wires from the dash the second time I tried to start it.

[1974-B-80 52]

If its not the points, then could it be the one of the valves being un timed?

[SousaKerry 502]

Valves run on a one piece cam and don't have much to do with the spark timing or spark.   Another thing to check it that the cam lobe for the points is opening the points properly,  it is possible that the cam is spinning loose on the crank shaft as it is a keyed sleeve on most engines.

 

Unless you have to, do not remove the stator unit from the block.  If you do you will have to go through the Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) timing procedure and it is a pain...

[1974-B-80 52]

Oh I actually did remove the whole electrical system, cleaned and re gapped to .020 for the 5th time and it worked. I just drove it around. It runs really nice.

[1974-B-80 52]

Thanks guys for the help. Now it's just time to take the tractor apart for restoration. I can't wait!

[AMC RULES 37,182]

I've heard it tell, even new points may need to be cleaned before they will work.

Any updates yet?     

Edited September 29, 2013 by AMC RULES

[1974-B-80 52]

Im sure youve seen the tractor done and running. i jave videos of it on youtube. im subscribed to your youtube. I'm selling the 604 now.