Briggs Model 326437 Points plunger

Hi All, I am working on the Briggs 16 hp cast iron single 326437 it was running fine was adjusting the carb when suddenly it started running intermittently like the ignition switch was being turned on / off checked the spark and it was cutting in and out removed the points cover and checked the points and found the they were barely opening tried to adjust them now have no spark and have very little plunger movement what could have happened?? Is it possible to remove the plunger without braking it and not having to open the engine?