Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Spark or no spark, spark plug, electrode

Question
When I check for spark with my inline tester it shows all is well, when I replace tester with good spark plug and ground to engine, no spark present. Whats up?, is there a better way to check. Thanks for any help.

Answer
Hi Darryl,

I'm not sure about your tester or how it functions.  It may report a weak spark, as being okay.  
If you make a good ground contact to the head with a good spark plug and crank the engine over, the plug should spark.  It may be hard to see the electrode and a solid ground is critical, so using a friend to help, sometimes is best.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael