" Norm... ON those engines, it
" Norm... ON those engines, it's not unusual for the spark plugs wire to short out to either the underside of the armature plate upon which the coils sit, or to the block itself. This will not show up on a ohm meter. Remove the plugs so that the spark will be forced to travel to an alternative ground, then in a very dark area, crank the engine and observe the engines ignition system. It should show up if that type problem exists.
Also, check the following:
(Magneto Armature Plate)
If the armature plate has a a loose fitting, wobbling motion (the plate that the points, coils etc are attached to), it is usually caused by a slightly worn support ring. This allows the point setting to change erratically as the armature plate turns.
The cure is to remove the armature plate so that the support which is attached to the powerhead with 4 screws is visible. Then, with a screwdriver and hammer, or some tool of your choosing, and looking straight down at the support ring, make an indentation at what would be called the 12, 3, 6, and 9 O'clock positions. Install the armature plate and check for a smooth turning wobble free movement.
You may need to do that procedure a few times to obtain the proper fit (not too tight, not too loose), but it's worth the effort.
Joe (30+ Years With OMC) "
