How to Test a Magneto 2-Cycle Engine Craftsman Line Trimmer

The magneto on a Craftsman trimmer is also referred to as an ignition coil. The magneto bolts to the top of the engine block and creates the electricity that is sent to the spark plug to ignite the fuel mixture in the engine cylinder. If the engine runs hot, it can cause the magneto to malfunction, which will make the engine run erratically or not run at all. Testing the magneto takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Spark plug wrench
Spark plug
Spark tester

Instructions

- 1
  Place the trimmer on a flat workbench. Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug in the front of the engine. Remove the spark plug with the spark plug wrench; replace with a new spark plug to ensure proper coil test. Tighten down the new spark plug with the spark plug wrench.
- 2
  Connect the spark tester lead into the spark plug wire; attach the alligator clip from the spark tester to the metal end of the spark plug. Adjust the knob on top of the spark tester to a 4.0-mm gap.
- 3
  Push the ignition switch to the RUN position. Pull the recoil rapidly while watching the viewfinder on the spark tester. If the spark is strong and blue, the coil is operating properly; if the spark is weak or nonexistent, the coil needs replacement.

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