Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

I replaced the coil and put in new spark plugs 6 months ago, ran fairly well (although still very hard to start in cold, occasional backfiring) until recently, now will barely run at all. Plugs are sooted.

What else is involved in firing system besides coil and plugs that could be culprit? thanks

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

Let's read your spark plug first. It might be running rich, or another problem.
http://www.sidexsideworld.com/thread...g-chart.26012/

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

I removed the plugs cranked it over with the throttle pedal and the fire from both the plugs is intermittent. (more off than on)

I removed the flywheel cover and there is something with two wires sitting over the flywheel. Sorry I don't know what it's called, I really need a reference manual/diagram!) Could this be bad?

Also under the flywheel outer cover is an actuator?, possibly low oil pressure cut-off? with a single white wire coming out. It looks like it hasn't been connected to anything for years. I don't even see where it connects to?

Also, I traced the red wire coming out of the coil back to a module near the battery. What is this and could it cause intermittant spark?

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

The thing under the flywheel is the pulsar. Also called a pickup coil. Not likely bad.

I believe the single white wire is for a low oil pressure light.

The last thing is probably the ignitor coil.

I work on the 2 strokes. One of the newer engine guys will be along shortly with much better advice than what I could give.

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins (will send $20 bill to
 

First person who gives me correct answer to this. I replaced pulsar. Spark is consistent now but apparently too weak to start engine. Now, consistant spark to both plugs, good compression, sprayed ether directly into carb, still won't start.

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

Check ground wires from battery to frame and frame to engine.

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

Check your valve clearance. Set them to .004"

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

Valves previously set to .004" and all ground wire terminals and what they touch are smooth and shiney. Still won't run. However, strangely, when I removed one plug to see if it's firing, it tried to start on one cylinder. It wouldn't do this with both plugs in.

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

You might have one bad plug.

Re: Very weak spark 2003 TXT, 295 Robbins
 

Here's the link to a service manual (revised in 2007 but should cover your 2003)................................link > http://products.jacobsen.com/img/manuals/605586.pdf