"Paul Waites" wrote in message
...
Hi all,

I don't know if any of you are engine experts but here we go:

I've got an ancient "Gardenmaster 80" cultivator made by Landmaster in
the 1950's. It has been a good friend down the allotment saving a lot of
backache.

This year it won't start! I spin the flywheel and can get a nice
electric shock if I stick my finger in the plug lead but will it as heck
spark a spark plug. I therefore think the magneto has not enough
magnetism.

That should be enough.
Change the spark plug. Set the gap to 0.030"
Try pouring a teaspoonful (no more) of fuel in through the spark plug hole -
it is also helpful to heat the spark plug in an oven beforehand. Then try
starting quickly before the plug gets cold.
If it runs then dies the carburettor needs cleaning.
If it does not, check the timing and yes usually you have to get the
flywheel off.
I don't know JAP engines but if there is a nut holding the flywheel on, and
you can see a taper shaft then undo the nut half a dozen turns, then a sharp
tap with a large hammer (not small - that will damage it) on the strongest
looking part of the flywheel often frees them.

I repeat, I don't know JAP engines so it's all at your own risk.

Slatts