After MUCH online searching, I STILL cannot find a clear description/diagram of a simple magneto as used on B&S small engines. I have a 10HP OHV engine in a generator with no spark. I also have a 12HP in a Snapper mower. Both use the same magneto. Here is the Q:

There is only one wire terminal besides the plug wire. This is used for the kill switch, that as I understand it grounds the magneto and thus kills spark output. But testing both magnetos with an ohm meter shows that this terminal is a direct short to the horse shoe frame of the magneto. So how in heck can this wire be used to ground/kill the spark when it is constantly @ ground whether the wire is connected or not?!

Keep in mind the Snapper has spark, and the generator does not. But BOTH magnetos test exactly the same. So, being my 1st ever online help-site Question, HELP! :)

It's a direct path to ground. When you turn the key to off then it grounds out the kill wire.
If no wire is hooked on , or key is on , path is open.
When the magnet passes the coil it creates a spark from the electro in the coil .the ground wire grounds this so it will not spark
Hope this helps