No Start

[Chris Tewell]

I have a Montgomery Wards tractor that is made by Mtd, It has a 18 Briggs and Stratton. It will not start, it cranks but no start

 

[landlord7012]

You need 3 things for combustion: fuel, compression and spark. Remove a spark plug - is it wet? If so you have fuel. While the plug is out put your thumb over the hole and crank it - it should blow your thumb off (this is a crude method, you need a compression test to determine if you have the correct amount). Put the plug wire on the plug and ground the base of the plug. Crank it - got spark? Of course you'll need to block the wheels or set the parking brake, make sure the drivetrin is in neutral and all the other good safety stuff before you do this. Check these three things and report back so the experts can help you. If the first line sent you reeling you'll need to find a mechanic that can help you. Also, not to be smart but make sure there is gas in the tank and that all safety switches and devices are hooked up and working properly and be sure the battery is charged.

Merry Christmas,
Bill

 

[Anonymous-0]

Remove plug(s),have someone sit on tractor & crank eng,check for spark at plug(s)use new plug(s)if no spark locate ign kill lead at eng & disconnect,crank eng,if you have spark now problem in safety sw's or ign sw on tractor,if still no spark problem in ign system or lube system on eng,if you have spark then problem in fuel system or if an ohv eng,valves may need adjustment.Remove air cleaner & put a shot of starting fluid into carb intake,if eng fires & runs,problem in fuel system,if it doesn't fire,check clearances on valves,check that flywheel key isn't bent or sheared,check for sticking valves or blown head gasket.

 

[Kentb of SWMO]

I assume this engine is a flat twin 18 HP. If you have no fire, be sure the kill wire to the coil is not grounded out. If this wire is not grounded and you still have no fire the Magnetron coil is bad. There are no point and condenser. Only the very early Flat Twins had points None were slated for points but the Magnetron system was not ready when the Flat Twins were ready. I have work on one early Flat Twin that had points.

Kent

 

[Chris Tewell]

I am going to go out and check on it tomorrow, it has been raining during the day, and then it has been freezing during the night thanks for all your help.