No the points will not go bad at once. Go through the steps I have in post 7 a let us know what you find if you have any questions.
One more thing: I replaced the old coil, which was on the tractor when it originally stalled. But I am not convinced that was my problem.
Rick
Clean the points with some fine grit sandpaper or a point file if you have one. I bet that is the problem.
The next failure point would be the coil. They are prone to failing under load when they get hot. Ive had several on other engines do so.
Check the coil wire as well. The ignition system is pretty simple.
yes, they can.... the screw can come loose and they can close up.
the rubbing block can wear from lack of lube. the cheap tisco and chinese points with black plastic block wear badly.. and with no lube can wear out EXTREMELY quick.