hakaplan

Hi folks. I'm trying to replace the coil/magneto module on this engine and have looked everywhere online and cannot find anyone who's discussed having done it. It appears that the only way to gain access to the coil is by removing the engine cover. The problem is that I can't figure out how to get the cover off without having to remove the whole engine from its mounting. Has anyone had experience with working on this engine, and in particular removing this engine cover? Is there something I'm missing? I can't believe they would have designed it like this. Thanks very much for any help. Howard

I recently ran into the same problem with my 7-year-old Simplicity single stage (520E).  Only in my case the auger was only $160.  Still I didn't think it was worth fixing (it needed a few other things) and decided to go for one of the new Toro Power Clear models, specifically the 221QE.  I read reviews and discussions about the various single stage models and there were some who really liked the Honda.  But now you can see the negative side of Honda--the cost to replace parts and repair them.  I've never heard of an auger breaking on a Toro, but even if it did, the entire cost of the parts comes to about $65.  And it's made up of removable components, so the likelihood is that you'd get by with replacing less than the whole unit. 

The Honda and most of the others have the rubber riveted to a metal auger.  The auger can rust over the years and possibly break and when the rubber needs replacing, you have to bring it in and deal with the service cost.  Of course, if you've gleaned 18 years from the Honda that's still a tribute to their quality.  But the Toro design is simple genius.  Each of the two paddles is $15 and you can replace it yourself.  They last for three years.   That and all the rave reviews over the years about Toros is what convinced me to buy one.  And now, depending on where you're located, it might be a good time to buy one.  Here in Philly it was a nothing winter so dealers are stuck with plenty of leftovers.  I got one for 20% off.  Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

I might add, this is a good place to find parts at better prices.  The Honda auger there is $20 less.

http://www.jackssmallengines.com/searchdb2.cfm