Husqvarna 125B Ignition Coil Repair Tips (Troubleshooting No Spark)

“Houston, we have a problem.” That famous line, immortalized by Apollo 13, perfectly encapsulates the feeling when your Husqvarna 125B blower decides it’s not going to cooperate. And when the issue is “no spark,” the potential culprit is often the ignition coil. So, you’re here because your Husqvarna 125B leaf blower isn’t sparking, and you suspect the ignition coil. You’re looking for troubleshooting tips and repair advice. You want to diagnose the problem, understand the possible causes, and hopefully fix it yourself without a costly trip to the repair shop. This article will delve into the world of ignition coil repair for the Husqvarna 125B, providing clear, actionable advice to get your blower back up and running.

I’ve been there. I remember one particularly frustrating autumn afternoon. Leaves were piling up faster than I could rake, and my trusty 125B decided to go silent. After a few choice words and a deep breath, I started troubleshooting. It turned out to be a faulty ignition coil. Now, I’m going to share everything I learned (and continue to learn) about diagnosing and potentially fixing this common issue.

The Importance of Tracking Metrics in Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation

Before we dive into the ignition coil, let’s talk about something seemingly unrelated: project metrics. I know, you’re thinking, “What does this have to do with my leaf blower?” Well, stick with me. Just like understanding the ignition coil helps you fix your blower, understanding project metrics helps you run your wood processing or firewood preparation operations more efficiently and profitably. I’ve learned over the years that tracking certain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) can make a huge difference.

Imagine you’re running a small firewood business. You’re splitting, stacking, and selling wood. Without tracking your wood waste, drying times, and sales, you’re essentially flying blind. You might be losing money without even realizing it. That’s where project metrics come in. They provide a clear picture of your operation’s performance, allowing you to identify areas for improvement, reduce costs, and maximize profit.

Now, let’s get into the specifics.

1. Wood Volume Yield Efficiency

Definition: This metric measures the percentage of usable wood obtained from raw logs. It’s the ratio of the volume of finished product (firewood, lumber, etc.) to the volume of the original logs.
Why It’s Important: High wood waste translates directly into lost profit. Optimizing yield efficiency ensures you’re maximizing the value of each log.
How to Interpret It: A low yield efficiency (e.g., below 70%) indicates significant waste. Investigate potential causes like improper cutting techniques, unsuitable log selection, or inefficient processing methods. A high yield efficiency (e.g., above 85%) means you’re doing a good job minimizing waste.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is closely related to cost per unit and time spent processing. Reducing waste can lower your cost per unit and potentially reduce the overall time needed to process a given volume of wood.

Example: I remember one project where we were processing a batch of oak logs. Our initial yield efficiency was around 72%. By adjusting our cutting patterns and being more selective with the logs we chose to process, we managed to increase the yield to 80%. That 8% increase translated into a significant boost in profit. * Data Point: Assume you start with 10 cubic meters of raw logs and yield 7 cubic meters of usable firewood. Your wood volume yield efficiency is 70%.

2. Processing Time per Cord/Cubic Meter

Definition: This metric measures the time required to process a specific volume of wood, such as a cord or a cubic meter. It encompasses all stages, from bucking and splitting to stacking.
Why It’s Important: Time is money. Reducing processing time increases your throughput, allowing you to produce more firewood or lumber with the same resources.
How to Interpret It: A high processing time per unit indicates inefficiencies in your workflow. Analyze each stage of the process to identify bottlenecks. A low processing time means you’re operating efficiently.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is directly linked to labor costs and equipment downtime. Reducing processing time can lower labor costs and minimize the risk of equipment breakdowns due to overuse.

Example: In my early days, I was spending an average of 8 hours processing a cord of firewood. By streamlining my process, investing in better equipment (like a hydraulic splitter), and optimizing my workspace, I managed to reduce that time to 5 hours. * Data Point: It takes 6 hours to process one cord of firewood.

3. Cost per Unit (Cord/Cubic Meter)

Definition: This metric represents the total cost associated with producing one unit of firewood or lumber. It includes the cost of raw materials (logs), labor, equipment, fuel, and other overhead expenses.
Why It’s Important: Understanding your cost per unit is essential for pricing your products competitively and ensuring profitability.
How to Interpret It: A high cost per unit can indicate inefficiencies in various areas, such as high raw material costs, excessive labor expenses, or inefficient equipment usage. A low cost per unit means you’re operating efficiently and maximizing profit margins.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is directly influenced by wood volume yield efficiency, processing time, equipment downtime, and moisture content. Improving these other metrics can lower your cost per unit.

Example: I once discovered that my cost per cord was significantly higher than my competitors. After analyzing my expenses, I realized I was paying too much for logs and spending too much time processing the wood. By negotiating better log prices and optimizing my workflow, I was able to significantly reduce my cost per cord and become more competitive. * Data Point: The total cost to produce one cord of firewood is $150.

4. Equipment Downtime

Definition: This metric measures the amount of time equipment is out of service due to breakdowns, maintenance, or repairs.
Why It’s Important: Equipment downtime disrupts your workflow, reduces productivity, and increases repair costs. Minimizing downtime is crucial for maintaining a consistent output.
How to Interpret It: A high equipment downtime indicates potential problems with equipment maintenance, inadequate operator training, or the use of unreliable equipment. A low downtime means your equipment is well-maintained and your operators are properly trained.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric directly impacts processing time and cost per unit. Reducing downtime can improve processing time and lower your overall cost per unit.

Example: I had a particularly rough season where my wood splitter kept breaking down. Each breakdown cost me several hours of lost production time and hundreds of dollars in repairs. I finally realized that I wasn’t performing regular maintenance on the machine. By implementing a preventative maintenance schedule, I was able to significantly reduce the number of breakdowns and improve my overall productivity. * Data Point: The wood splitter is out of service for 8 hours per week due to breakdowns.

5. Moisture Content of Firewood

Definition: This metric measures the percentage of water in firewood. It’s a crucial indicator of fuel quality and burning efficiency.
Why It’s Important: Wet firewood burns poorly, produces excessive smoke, and releases less heat. Selling or using firewood with high moisture content can damage your reputation and reduce customer satisfaction.
How to Interpret It: Firewood with a moisture content above 20% is generally considered too wet to burn efficiently. Ideally, firewood should have a moisture content below 20%, and even lower for optimal burning.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is directly related to drying time and customer satisfaction. Properly drying firewood to the optimal moisture content can improve burning efficiency and increase customer satisfaction.

Example: I once had a customer complain that my firewood was difficult to light and produced a lot of smoke. After testing the moisture content, I discovered it was well above 30%. I realized that I hadn’t allowed the wood enough time to dry properly. Since then, I’ve implemented a strict drying protocol and use a moisture meter to ensure all my firewood is properly seasoned before selling it. * Data Point: The moisture content of the firewood is 30%.

6. Customer Satisfaction

Definition: This metric gauges how happy customers are with your product and service. It can be measured through surveys, reviews, and repeat business.
Why It’s Important: Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others. Positive word-of-mouth is invaluable for building a strong reputation and attracting new customers.
How to Interpret It: Low customer satisfaction scores indicate potential problems with your product quality, customer service, or pricing. High scores mean you’re meeting or exceeding customer expectations.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is influenced by all the other metrics mentioned above. High-quality firewood, efficient service, and competitive pricing all contribute to customer satisfaction.

Example: I started sending out short customer satisfaction surveys after each firewood delivery. The feedback I received was invaluable. It helped me identify areas where I could improve my service, such as offering more flexible delivery times and providing better advice on how to properly store firewood. * Data Point: 80% of customers rate their satisfaction with your firewood as “Excellent.”

7. Sales Volume and Revenue

Definition: These metrics track the quantity of firewood or lumber sold and the total revenue generated over a specific period.
Why It’s Important: These metrics provide a clear picture of your business’s overall performance and growth.
How to Interpret It: Declining sales volume or revenue can indicate problems with your product quality, pricing, or marketing efforts. Increasing sales volume and revenue mean your business is thriving.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: These metrics are influenced by all the other metrics mentioned above. Improving product quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction can all lead to increased sales volume and revenue.

Example: By tracking my sales volume and revenue on a monthly basis, I was able to identify seasonal trends and adjust my production schedule accordingly. This allowed me to avoid overstocking during slow periods and ensure I had enough firewood on hand during peak demand. * Data Point: Total firewood sales for the month are 50 cords, generating $10,000 in revenue.

8. Labor Costs per Unit

Definition: This metric tracks the amount spent on labor (wages, benefits, etc.) to produce one unit of firewood or lumber.
Why It’s Important: Labor costs are a significant expense for most wood processing operations. Monitoring this metric helps you identify areas where you can improve labor efficiency.
How to Interpret It: High labor costs per unit can indicate inefficiencies in your workflow, inadequate training, or the need for more automation. Low labor costs mean you’re utilizing your workforce efficiently.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is directly linked to processing time. Reducing processing time can lower your labor costs per unit.

Example: I realized I was spending too much on labor because my employees were wasting time searching for tools and materials. By organizing my workspace and implementing a system for tracking inventory, I was able to significantly reduce the amount of time employees spent searching for things, which lowered my labor costs per unit. * Data Point: The labor cost to produce one cord of firewood is $50.

9. Fuel Consumption per Unit

Definition: This metric tracks the amount of fuel (gasoline, diesel, electricity) used to produce one unit of firewood or lumber.
Why It’s Important: Fuel costs can be a significant expense, especially for operations that rely on heavy machinery. Monitoring this metric helps you identify opportunities to reduce fuel consumption.
How to Interpret It: High fuel consumption per unit can indicate inefficient equipment usage, the need for equipment maintenance, or the use of outdated machinery. Low fuel consumption means you’re operating efficiently.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is linked to equipment downtime and processing time. Properly maintained equipment and efficient workflow can reduce fuel consumption.

Example: I discovered that my old chainsaw was consuming a lot more fuel than my newer model. By replacing the old chainsaw, I was able to significantly reduce my fuel consumption and save money. * Data Point: It takes 5 gallons of gasoline to produce one cord of firewood.

10. Log Procurement Costs

Definition: This metric tracks the cost of acquiring raw logs, including purchase price, transportation, and any other associated expenses.
Why It’s Important: Log procurement costs are a major factor in your overall cost per unit. Managing these costs effectively is crucial for profitability.
How to Interpret It: High log procurement costs can indicate the need to negotiate better prices with suppliers, explore alternative sources of logs, or optimize your transportation logistics. Low costs mean you’re sourcing logs efficiently.
How It Relates to Other Metrics: This metric is directly related to cost per unit. Reducing log procurement costs can lower your overall cost per unit.

Example: I started sourcing logs directly from local landowners instead of going through a middleman. This allowed me to negotiate better prices and significantly reduce my log procurement costs. * Data Point: The cost to procure enough logs for one cord of firewood is $80.

Applying Metrics to Improve Future Projects

Tracking these metrics isn’t just about collecting data; it’s about using that data to make informed decisions and improve future projects. Here’s how:

Identify Areas for Improvement: Analyze your metrics to pinpoint areas where you’re underperforming. Are you experiencing high wood waste? Is your processing time too long? Are your labor costs too high?
Set Goals and Track Progress: Once you’ve identified areas for improvement, set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Track your progress towards these goals and adjust your strategies as needed.
Experiment with New Techniques: Don’t be afraid to try new things. Experiment with different cutting techniques, equipment, or workflow processes to see if they can improve your metrics.
Invest in Training and Equipment: If your metrics indicate that your employees need additional training or that your equipment is outdated, invest in these areas. It’s an investment in the future of your business.
Regularly Review and Adjust: Project metrics are not static. Regularly review your metrics and adjust your strategies as needed to stay ahead of the curve and maximize your profitability.

I’ve seen firsthand how tracking these metrics can transform a struggling wood processing operation into a thriving business. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

Back to the Husqvarna 125B Ignition Coil

Now, let’s get back to that Husqvarna 125B and its stubborn lack of spark. It’s all about applying the same principles of diagnosis and targeted solutions that we use in managing larger wood processing projects.

Safety First!

Before you even think about touching your blower, disconnect the spark plug wire. Trust me, you don’t want to accidentally start the engine while you’re working on it. Also, wear gloves and eye protection.

Understanding the Ignition Coil

The ignition coil is a crucial component of your blower’s ignition system. It’s essentially a transformer that takes the low voltage from the magneto (powered by the flywheel) and amplifies it to create the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder.

Troubleshooting Steps: No Spark Diagnosis

Check the Spark Plug: This is the simplest and often overlooked step. A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from starting. Remove the spark plug and inspect it. Look for cracks, excessive carbon buildup, or a worn electrode. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it if necessary.
- Insight: I’ve found that even a slightly dirty spark plug can cause starting problems. It’s always a good idea to have a spare on hand.
- Test the Spark Plug: Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug. Hold the spark plug against the engine block (making sure the metal part of the spark plug is touching metal on the engine). Pull the starter cord. You should see a bright blue spark jumping across the spark plug gap. If you don’t see a spark, the problem lies elsewhere.
- Insight: Make sure you have a good ground connection when testing the spark plug. A weak ground can prevent the spark from forming.
- Check the Spark Plug Wire and Boot: Inspect the spark plug wire for any cracks, cuts, or damage. Make sure the spark plug boot is securely attached to the spark plug. A loose or damaged wire can prevent the spark from reaching the spark plug.
- Insight: Sometimes the spark plug wire can become corroded inside the boot. Try trimming the end of the wire and reattaching the boot.
- Inspect the Ignition Coil: The ignition coil is usually located near the flywheel. Inspect it for any signs of damage, such as cracks, burns, or melted plastic. If you see any damage, the ignition coil needs to be replaced.
- Insight: I’ve seen ignition coils fail due to overheating. Make sure the engine is properly cooled and that the cooling fins are clean.
- Test the Ignition Coil Resistance: This requires a multimeter. Disconnect the ignition coil from the blower. Set your multimeter to measure resistance (Ohms). Measure the resistance between the spark plug wire terminal and the engine mounting bracket. Refer to your Husqvarna 125B service manual for the correct resistance values. If the resistance is outside the specified range, the ignition coil is likely faulty.
- Insight: Testing the resistance can be tricky. Make sure you have a good connection with the multimeter probes.
- Check the Air Gap: The air gap is the distance between the ignition coil and the flywheel. If the air gap is too large or too small, the ignition coil won’t be able to generate enough voltage to create a spark. Use a feeler gauge to check the air gap. Refer to your Husqvarna 125B service manual for the correct air gap setting.
- Insight: I’ve found that using a business card as a feeler gauge works well in a pinch.
- Check the Kill Switch: The kill switch is designed to ground the ignition system and prevent the engine from starting. If the kill switch is faulty, it may be grounding the ignition system even when it’s in the “run” position. Disconnect the kill switch wire from the ignition coil. If the engine now starts, the kill switch is faulty and needs to be replaced.
- Insight: Sometimes the kill switch wire can become frayed and short to ground. Inspect the wire carefully for any damage.
- Check the Flywheel Key: The flywheel key is a small metal piece that connects the flywheel to the crankshaft. If the flywheel key is sheared, the flywheel will be out of sync with the crankshaft, and the engine won’t start. Remove the flywheel and inspect the flywheel key. If it’s sheared, it needs to be replaced.
- Insight: Sheared flywheel keys are often caused by hitting a hard object with the blower. Be careful when using your blower around rocks and other obstacles.

Repair Tips and Considerations

Replacing the Ignition Coil: If you’ve determined that the ignition coil is faulty, the best course of action is usually to replace it. You can purchase a new ignition coil from a Husqvarna dealer or online. Make sure you get the correct part number for your 125B.
Installation: Installing a new ignition coil is relatively straightforward. Disconnect the old ignition coil, remove it from the blower, and install the new ignition coil in its place. Make sure to set the air gap correctly.
Aftermarket vs. OEM: You’ll often find aftermarket ignition coils available at a lower price than OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. While aftermarket parts can save you money, they may not be as reliable as OEM parts. I generally recommend using OEM parts whenever possible, especially for critical components like the ignition coil.
- Insight: I’ve had mixed experiences with aftermarket ignition coils. Some have worked perfectly fine, while others have failed prematurely.
- Testing After Replacement: After replacing the ignition coil, test the engine to make sure it starts and runs properly. If the engine still doesn’t start, double-check your work and make sure you’ve followed all the steps correctly.

Case Study: My Own Husqvarna 125B Ignition Coil Adventure

I mentioned earlier about my own experience. Let me elaborate. One autumn, my Husqvarna 125B suddenly died mid-leaf-blowing session. After checking the spark plug (which was fine), I suspected the ignition coil. I followed the troubleshooting steps outlined above and confirmed that the ignition coil was indeed faulty.

I decided to purchase an aftermarket ignition coil online. It was significantly cheaper than the OEM part, and I was eager to save some money. I installed the new ignition coil, set the air gap, and tried to start the engine. It started, but it ran poorly and kept stalling. I checked everything again, but I couldn’t figure out what was wrong.

Frustrated, I decided to bite the bullet and purchase an OEM ignition coil from a Husqvarna dealer. I installed the OEM part, and the engine started immediately and ran perfectly. The lesson learned?

Final Thoughts

Troubleshooting a “no spark” issue on your Husqvarna 125B can be frustrating, but it’s often something you can do yourself with a little patience and the right tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can diagnose the problem, repair it if necessary, and get your blower back up and running. And remember, just like tracking project metrics is essential for running a successful wood processing operation, understanding the components of your equipment is essential for keeping it running smoothly. Now, go forth and conquer those leaves!