Oxford Allen scythe condenser replacement

[Merrycoast]

Hey all,
Just some context:
I got an Allen scythe as my first project and it was initially a non runner. I ended up changing the ignition coil, re-doing the timing and cleaning out the carb and it ran. However, I ended up leaving it for a few months and when I went to start it it once again didn’t start and didn’t even spark so I assumed it was the ignition coil or spark plug but changed those and they were fine and so to me the only option must just be that either the points are worn or the condenser has failed. Either way, to save hassle and considering I was unable to find many replacement condenser parts anywhere I was thinking of replacing these with an electronic ignition system rather than the original condenser and points.
Does anyone have any sort of idea which ignition system I need? As I don’t have too much experience with this and they all look completely different.

As well as this, I’m not really sure where it’s supposed to go as in any videos I’ve watched there were large bolts that were used to attach the new system but mine doesn’t seem to have any.

Any help or ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks
Ben

 

[suffolksmallholder]

As far as I can remember the points have a brass cover. Not shown or missing in your pic.
The engine is a Villiers two-stroke and if timed up correctly, will run ok. Something like 1/2” btdc All relevant info is out there as these engines ran most items from the 50’s to the 70’s.
Not forgetting to ensure the carbie is clean
As for parts https://villiersservices.co.uk/
Should have what you require.

 

[pycoed]

Hey all,
Just some context:
I got an Allen scythe as my first project and it was initially a non runner. I ended up changing the ignition coil, re-doing the timing and cleaning out the carb and it ran. However, I ended up leaving it for a few months and when I went to start it it once again didn’t start and didn’t even spark so I assumed it was the ignition coil or spark plug but changed those and they were fine and so to me the only option must just be that either the points are worn or the condenser has failed. Either way, to save hassle and considering I was unable to find many replacement condenser parts anywhere I was thinking of replacing these with an electronic ignition system rather than the original condenser and points.
Does anyone have any sort of idea which ignition system I need? As I don’t have too much experience with this and they all look completely different.

As well as this, I’m not really sure where it’s supposed to go as in any videos I’ve watched there were large bolts that were used to attach the new system but mine doesn’t seem to have any.

Any help or ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks
Ben

Usual problem with old small engines after being left for a few months is corrosion on the points so clean those thoroughly & check for spark again. Kohlers in particular are noted for this, just about the only thing that'll prevent them starting. I've used the "Atom" elec ignition on a few small engines - it's about £12 on Ebay but they all look to be the same unit under different names.

 

[suffolksmallholder]

I run a tuned up 12HP Stuart Turner two-stroke in my fishing boat. Being a twin cylinder I fitted a Boyer motorcycle electronic ignition to it. SH of course as some folk get all geed up with motorbike electronics and then realise they aren’t what they want so yours truly grabbed one cheeeeep

I have fitted electronic ignition to a big old Briggs engine but this was soooooo long ago I have forgotten the how’s.
I remember the flywheel took some effort to remove. The Villiers are easy-peasy by comparison.
SS

 

[Merrycoast]

Thanks all! I wasn’t expecting such fast replys but I’ll be sure to give these ideas a go and let you know how it goes.

 

[Kevm]

There should be a condenser somewhere in that picture, where does the little black wire go? is it an engine stop wire.
Make sure that is not earthing out somewhere, try http://www.villiersparts.co.uk/
It doesn't really need electronic ignition if the original system is in good nick.