Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower not starting, flywheel, thanks john

Question
Hello Eric,

I have a 4-5 year old Craftsman self-propelled 5.5 HP mower and it won't start.  I put in a new plug, and replaced the cord and pull-starter pulley but it still won't start.  It seems to not be getting any spark (I can smell gas and I pulled the spark plug after priming and trying to start and it seemed wet).  Any suggestions?

Thanks, John.

Answer
The shut-off switch for that engine is located under the flywheel.  I have replaced several broken switches lately.

To check for spark, dis-connect the small wire connected to the ignition wire.  You should have spark with this wire dis-connected.  The other end of the wire is connected to the shut-off switch.

Let me know what you find.  It could also be the shut-off cable not pulling the shut-off lever far enough to dis-engage the shut-off switch.

Dis-connect the small wire on the ignition module, check for spark.
Let me know what you find.
Eric