1955 15hp - no spark and want to add electric start

[DanDaMan]

Just picked up a 1955 15hp for $80 bucks. Seller said it was running but said he didn't have a bucket to test it. I was sceptical but for $80 thought it was a good deal even if needing work.

Sure enough it needs work. It has no spark on neither wire. I'm not a mechanic but good at tinkering. I'm better when the problem is no gas than no spark. Thus I have no idea where to start. Any advice?

Second, I found that the pull cord would slip on most pulls (wouldn't catch the flywheel). I removed the ***embly and fiddled with it but no difference - actually I made it worse since I broke one of the three swing thingys, as I was trying to bend it slightly thinking that was the problem. So I'm now using a cord directly on the flywheel. Is there a way to add electric start to these?

Thanks

[Solarman]

For no spark problem, I'd check under the flywheel. I believe they used points and condensers then, and they are probably not working. You should also check/ test the charging coils? Replacement parts, I wouldn't know, unless you can match them up?

For a starter on that model? I don't know.

Good luck