| . Test for a good, solid spark. Go over the entire electrical system, checking points, point gap, magneto, rust on flywheel affecting magneto, rust on magneto pickup, spark plug, and spark plug wire. Access to points will require flywheel removal. Learn how to properly "pop" the flywheel, without using a puller. Check condition of the key. Wobble in the flywheel and key affects proper timing.
. Test compression. Check for carbon buildup in the exhaust port, which can greatly affect carburetion and performance. If necessary, carefully dig carbon out. Remove any carbon from cylinder head and top of piston (replace gasket).
. Check fuel. Ensure the oil-to-fuel ratio is correct. People often mix too much oil with the fuel on two-cycle engines. I use synthetic two-cycle oil and run 100:1 in my equipment--they smoke less, don't carbon up, perform better, easier on the environment, plugs last for years, and engine life is greatly extended. Ensure there's no rust in the tank and the screen is clear. Check the condition of any fuel hoses, replacing with Tygon F-4040A Fuel & Oil tubing, if necessary. For outboards, use a BIA Certified oil, such as TC-W3, not just an API TC (air cooled) rated oil. If it's dually rated, that's fine. | 
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