troy-bilt chipper vacuum won't start

[section8joe]

I've got this chipper/vacuum and it ran ok last year but I can't get it to fire up this year. I'm starting it properly but it will not fire. It doesn't seem to be getting spark. I unhooked the plug grounded it and checked for spark. No luck. I even jammed a test light into the plug wire. No luck. I don't know what model I have and I don't have manual. This plug cap may also be the source of the problem. This looks a little crude.
Untitled by joe Cupp, on Flickr

 

[larry_g]

Is the safety switch for the bag in place making? Is the bag installed and locked properly? This get me right along on mine.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[MFolks]

No data plate on the engine or housing? Does the engine have the older style "Point's" ignition? If so,they maybe stuck closed or open.

 

[section8joe]

Is the safety switch for the bag in place making? Is the bag installed and locked properly? This get me right along on mine.

lg
no neat sig line

I don't have the bag attached. Maybe that my problem. I just wanted to make sure it ran so when I need it I can use it. I'll hook up the bag and try again.

 

[larry_g]

I don't have the bag attached. Maybe that my problem. I just wanted to make sure it ran so when I need it I can use it. I'll hook up the bag and try again.

If you look you should see the switch that the bag contacts right between the two arms of the spring latch. No bag=No run

lg
no neat sig line

 

[section8joe]

Ok I'm still having trouble with this thing. I looked over the area where the bag connects and I see nothing. I did however find a safety switch on the vacuum area of the machine. I plugged it but it still won't start. Here's a photo of the actual machine. Anyone recognize this?
Untitled by joe Cupp, on Flickr

 

[larry_g]

Well I'm of no help as that is a completely different model than the one I have.

Mine;

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Heel2toe]

Since you know you dont have spark chances are you have an issue with the coil. What kind of motor is it? Find the engine model number then source parts from that. Depending on the type of motor the engine code will be found in various places like the valve cover if its an OHV (yours doesnt look to be) engraved in the side of the block engraved in the head etc.

 

[creativecars]

I've got this chipper/vacuum and it ran ok last year but I can't get it to fire up this year. I'm starting it properly but it will not fire. It doesn't seem to be getting spark. I unhooked the plug grounded it and checked for spark. No luck. I even jammed a test light into the plug wire. No luck. I don't know what model I have and I don't have manual. This plug cap may also be the source of the problem. This looks a little crude.
Untitled by joe Cupp, on Flickr

I would first look at repairing or replacing the coil/wire. Coil wire seems a bit short.
Pull off the front cover and disconnect the safety switch wires going into the coil/points area and see if you can get spark then.