i have never known a solid state ignition as they are called fail in years of servicing these mowers or engine.
try unplugging the handle multi plug as this means 'on' when unplugged. of course have you tried a new plug.
the air gap between the ssi and the flywheel (under the recoil starter housing) needs to be correct, a playing cards width is not far off, but if you havent touched this i would not of thought it moved on its own, also needs to be clean, no grass or muck.
hope that helps you or anyone.
andy
June 2009