18 HP briggs wont turn off

[johnnova]

I have been working on my Max2 motor I have added a timing advance key and new springs. I have finally had the chance to install it back into my project machine and have found that once its started I cant turn it off. The only way I can shut the engine down right now is stuff a rag into the carb and choke it.
I have checked out all the wiring and it all seems to be correct, all the ground are also connected with a big ground strap to the base of the motor.
I have done some troubleshooting from the manual and it all points to the diodes being bad. I am some what confused on this because it was working fine before I took it apart so how do these diodes just fail for no apparent reason or could it be something else I am missing. any input would be greatly appreciated.

[carguy]

if its a briggs vangaurd engine it has a grounding wire going to each coil.this wire enters in near the ignition box and above the starter.
my guess is that it is disconnected hope this helps

[mike d]

Hi John, I wouldn't stuff the rag in the carb in case u backfire. Unless u have fire insurance. Good luck Mike

[ARGOJIM]

Think carguy is on tract, if you missed putting the wire on the inside of the cover or it fell off, or if the wire is not on the outside to switch it will not shut off.

[Nubs]

If the diodes were bad it would only run on one cylinder so I agree there is a bad ground er' disconnected wire

[johnnova]

Well you guys were right on the money with the wire being disconnected, I guess it fell off while I was putting the shroud back on. now back to my build thread. thanks for the help once again everyone.