Component Testing; Ignition System Operation; Ignition Coil - Toro Greensmaster Flex 21 Service Manual

Component Testing

For accurate resistance and/or continuity checks, elec-
trically disconnect the component being tested from the
circuit (e.g. unplug the ON/OFF switch connector before
doing a continuity check). Individual components should
be electrically isolated (e.g. disconnect all leads or re-
move from circuit) from the circuit when tested.
CAUTION
When testing electrical
continuity with a multimeter (ohms setting),
make sure that power to the circuit has been
disconnected.

Ignition System Operation

The engine on the Flex 21 has a magneto ignition sys-
tem consisting of an ignition coil, spark plug, and perma-
nent flywheel magnets. A flywheel key maintains proper
ignition timing.
Testing the Ignition System
NOTE: Do not remove spark plug from the engine. The
spark plug is necessary to maintain normal starting
speeds.
1. With engine not running, remove high tension lead
from the spark plug, and connect it to the spark tester
(Fig. 4).
2. Connect spring clip of tester to a good ground on the
engine block.
3. Make sure ON/OFF switch is in the ON position.
4. Pull the engine starter rope and observe the spark
tester. Visible and audible sparks should be produced.
5. If visible and audible sparks are produced, the igni-
tion system is operating properly.
6. If visible and audible sparks are not produced, the
ignition system is not operating properly.

Ignition Coil

A commercial coil tester can be used to test the ignition
coil. The coil can be tested for a badly shorted or broken
winding with a digital multimeter. However, a multimeter
can not detect layer shorts and shorts resulting from in-
Electrical System
components for
Page 5 – 6
NOTE: See the Kawasaki FE120 Service Manual in
Chapter 3 – Engine for more component testing in-
formation.
WARNING
The ignition system produces a dangerously
high voltage. Do not touch the spark plug,
ignition coil, or spark plug lead when the engine
is running; you can receive a severe electrical
shock.
A. Check wires and connectors of the ON/OFF
switch and ignition coil for grounding or damaged in-
sulation.
B. If wires and connectors are good, test the ON/
OFF switch and ignition coil individually (see Kawa-
saki FE120 Service Manual in Chapter 3 – Engine).
C. If the ON/OFF switch and ignition coil test proper-
ly, see Interlock Module and Switch in this section for
further testing.
Figure 4
sulation breakdown under high running voltages. See
Kawasaki FE120 Service Manual in Chapter 3 – En-
gine for ignition component testing information.
Rev. C
Spark Tester
(TOR4036)
Greensmaster Flex 21