Small Engine Timing & Small Engine Repair

Small engine timing is completely mechanical.
   The flywheel is on the opposite side of the engine from the output shaft. The flywheel has magnets mounted in it. As the flywheel magnets pass the coil they induce a current. The coil then discharges to the spark plug.
The relationship of where the coil sits and where the flywheel magnets are, dictates the timing.
   The coil can be moved slightly to change the timing. Move the coil in the direction the flywheel moves and the timing will be retarded and opposite to advance timing.
   The only other factor that affects the timing is the flywheel.
Occasionally the flywheel can shear it’s key on the crankshaft.
The key locates the flywheel in the correct rotational spot to insure correct timing. If the key is sheared the timing can be anywhere, and the engine may spark but not run.