JD 40C will not start

[odinrp]

I shut down my 40C last fall and when I tried to start it now it will not start.
I took the opportunity to take the lid off and re-wire the machine, replace the battery cables and put in new spart plugs and a new coil. The starter motor turns over put it will not fire. Before I go any further I was hoping to get some advice. Now it cranks over and does not fire and appears to not be getting any gas. I turn on the gas and pull the choke out about half way.

1. I now am not sure if the two spark plug wires are correct since I tokk them off so often. Any way to check?

2. I Plan on removing the spark plugs and check to insure there is a strong spark. Before replacing can I add a small amount of gas into the cylinder or will that harm the engine when and if it fires.

3. I tried spraying starting fluid into the air intake of the carburator, but no firing resulted. What can I do next to get it started?

Thanks for all your help.
Odinrp

[JD440ICD2006]

Put new points and condensor in it, sounds like one of both have failed. Make sure your wiring is conductiing properly.

[Mark Birdeau]

The first thing I would do is to see if there is spark at the points. Chances are that all it needs is to have the points cleaned up. My 40C will not spark at all if it sets more then a month or so. All I do is run a point file or some emery cloth through them followed by a clean rag. As to the plug wires if it is like mine the only way they can get mixed up is if the wires are longer then original. Mine will only fit one way. Also, if it hasn't been run for several months you may need to pull the choke all the way. To check the wire position open timing hole on the housing and find spark on the flywheel. The rotor should be pointing at the cap tower for the front plug.

Mark