F20 mag rod

[Daninsc]

Can someone explain the operation of the rod with handle on
right side of steering wheel. I have all jd"s and new to farmall. It
is not hooked up on top of hood where it turns to go to mag. It
is not firing either so I thought that might have one thing to do
with it.
 

[rustred]

the rod operates the cap on the points by advancing or retarding spark. in the up position is for engine stop which grounds out the spark. if in this position it will not start. to start engine i usually place lever in centre position then once running can move lever to the end or down position on mag. just operate it from mag. and see if you have spark while cranking. also check your points for gap @ .013 on high point of lobe. also make sure contacts are clean. to check gap just crank engine very very slow till you hear impulse trip and stop right there. that is the high side of cam lobe.