10 hp problem

[dav 2]

just been trying to start the 243431 briggs in my Big Ten. last started about 2 years ago and only run until I realized the hydraulic lift pump wasn't turning-2 or 3 minutes at most.

motor cranks well and occasionally fires but will not keep running. with plug wire off, I get irregular spark.

i have already cleaned the points but am unsure of the condenser. is there a test for it?

[goatfarmer 817]

Probably best answered under Talking Tractors.

[ss74nova 6]

Maybe one of the moderators can move this to talking tractors.

[ss74nova 6]

dav, I had a Briggs 300421 12hp from 1970 that had intermittent spark problems. It would fire up & run for 15 min until it got hot, then stall and no spark at all. Let it cool off or try next day same thing. I rapped on the condenser with a screwdriver handle & it would fire up & run. Give that a try. Hope this helps.

[BLT 718]

Did you check the grounding wire to make sure that wasn't rubbing somewhere?

[MrSteele 492]

Check for grounds, especially the wires at the hole in the cover. I use half a rubber grommet under the wires, usually tape over the wires before putting the cover back on. Without re-drilling or filing, there is not enough room for a whole grommet.

Many will tell you to go to electronic ignition, and that might be necessary. Everything I have is as original, and like to keep it that way. The problem actually sounds like a coil, or, in this case, the mag, getting hot, breaking down, cooling, and working again.

When you clean points, always look to see how they are burning. If they are wearing evenly, the condenser is not the problem, if burnt on one side or other from center, get a new condenser