[HairOfTheDog]

How does one check the spark plug? just wiggle where the connection is, or should I actually take it out? - and what exactly am I looking for if I do take it out?

[RosieCotton]

BTW, I keep forgetting to ask...can I be on your dog ping list?

[Corin Stormhands]

Make sure the connection is solid (not loose). The easiest way to test the spark plug is to just replace it with a new one. They're relatively inexpensive but might involve a trip to ~town~.

Beyond that...I googled this answer:

You can test the plug to see that it is functioning properly by grounding (touching) the hex portion of the plug to a bare metal part of the engine. Pull the rope or turn the key. If you see a blue spark jump across the gap in the plug, it is functioning properly. If not, a new plug may be the answer.