1989 Onan Generator ingnition coil question

I also tried measuring the voltage on the coil during start and I get 12 volts(actually only about 9) on both the + and - terminals. Does the coil sound bad to you?

Before you go tearing everything apart and move from one electrical component to another, I would suggest you check the most obvious things, first. I know the generator has a couple of auto-shut down features and those should be checked. Check the oil level, for one, they are very snotty about that, especially if the rig is off level.

You want good 12v voltage, not 9v. Jumper a battery to a terminal of the generator so it gets full 12V. If you have the cover off the ignition points set, turn the engine over. you should see spark. If not, follow the troubleshooting guide.