I'm pretty sure the ignition coil on my HRN216 (GCV170 engine) is the reason why it does not start. I have had trouble finding a OEM replacement (part # 30500-Z9V-003). A source I did find sells them north of $80 and they have to get them straight from distributors.
What are the implications of substituting said coil with one from a GCV160 engine (part # 30500-Z8B-903) which I found for $20. Visually they look nearly identical from pictures, but wanted ask here if there could be any issues I should know about.
Double check that supercession. Partstree has a habit of throwing several parts up when they either don't have that part number or will list similar part numbers which may or may not be correct.. That part that you posted comes back being used on a FC600 tiller and two 2500 watt generators not a push mower engine.
Now it is starting up flawlessly. They look nearly identical, I assume the change from -003 to -004 may be due to a newer or improved part? Either case, I did end up saving money which was the main point. I hope this helps other folks.