Saving Old Seagulls

Hi,
40 Featherweight
Serial GF1010HH6 Aug '76 - (and yes I know this puts it outside the official range for GF - but thats what it says on the tin)
with wipac 2 ignition and Bing carb
newly acquired
Can't get a spark at the plug
I have gapped the plug which I must admit is old, and had the points out, filed them and gapped them. All at 20 thou ( as best I can )
When I rotate the flywheel by hand or even on the start cord, I don't get a spark at the plug when close to cyl hed, or the HT lead when held close either.
When I rotate the flywheel by hand I do feel an unpleasant belt if I touch the HT lead.
A new spark plug is on order, but I'm hoping not to have to buy a new HT lead.

I've checked the FAQs but am now at a loss as to what to try next. Any ideas please ??
Alternatively any business in South Hants or W.Sussex who comes recommended ?
Thanks Andrew

Do the conductivity test. With a multimeter you will place the first pole whre the HT lead fits and the other one on the points when they are closed. If it is OK you should see sort circuiting. Do the same for the HT lead. If both are OK then either the spark plug is faulty or the magnets are demagnetised.

If you are getting a belt, then the ignition is working, the spark is just not getting to the end of the plug.

If you have an old rubber lead with a metal tag with hole in it for the plug top, it is at least 33 years old! Replace!! If it has a suppresser half way alond ditch it, they were hopeless! Seagull recommended treplacement every year... with the 1978 on PVC leads they are good for 5years at least, but the new rubber waterproof plug cap will not last that long normally and will need replacement every 5 years at least. At £16.75, worth every penny for peace of mind and continual sparks, especially at sea! (plugs £5.00)

Mail me on the sos mail address.

Officially closed, to be with family, but sneaking away to answer urgent mail when I can!

Regards,
John
SOS

Thanks both of you for your replies.

Clean & set the points again to 20 thou!

John thanks for your advice - you were right, and thanks for the off forum advice too, parts arrived very fast, new HT lead has sorted it and I now have a nice juicy spark. Andrew

good to hear Andrew, happy Seagulling!

thick fog here, so not a lot of boating!

Regards,
john
SOS