I already gave Richard that link on 6th in my post above...........SPRIDDLER wrote:This techy info will be useful to set/check the valve timing:
http://archives.jampot.dk/technical/Gen ... e_Dots.pdf
My first step would be to fit a new plug since it fired with minimal compression (i.e with the valve lifter operated) but may fail to spark under full compression.
As said, mags don't store well and you don't know its condition. Personally I wouldn't fit an electronic unit though but get the mag sorted (if that is the problem).
A lot of unknowns there. Without being on the spot it's impossible to cover all the 'possibles' but if you recheck that you've got the basics right (cams, ign timing, carb settings etc) it's down to perseverance as most engines have preferences for starting - choke, no choke, throttle shut or part open, flood the carb a little, a lot, or not much. Useful to have a spare plug or two to change one that has become soaked in fuel.The engine has never run and has been built up from box of parts