At 11:59 AM 2/5/99 -0800, Bob Saville wrote: > I use the method of placing hands on the prop, swinging my right leg >forward under the prop and then swinging it back behind me at the same >time I start to spin the prop.
Everything I've read about hand-propping always says NOT to lift a leg up due to the risk of falling down. YMMV. Also, don't depend on the prop for any percentage of your equilibrium. When the motor does start, it won't be supporting you unless you are going around and around. I take a step back, which forces my arm down as I back away from the prop (basic vector geometry). If that ain't enough to start a C-series, then you probably should have spent a bit more time prepping the motor with the mags grounded. Or that the impulse-coupling (likely) or ignition, or carb needs attention. These little puppies start very easily, with very little effort, when healthy. In fact, after you've propped a well-prepped and well-maintained C-series, you'll never be casual about turning a prop again. On any airplane engine. At least that was my reaction, the first time I did it, earlier this year (under tutelage of an expert). > If anyone out there is 'uncomfortable' with propping a coupe, leave the >mag switch 'off' and try this method a few times to get the feel of it. Remembering, of course, that P-leads have been known to break, and mag switches (which are electrically ON to turn the motor OFF) to fail. Either situation means the engine is eminantly startable when it oughtn't be. Remember, the Coupe's mixture control (if any) doesn't have an 'idle cut off' and that even with a fuel valve closed and the engine seemingly run dry, there will sometimes be enough fuel in there to give you a bit of a thwack. FWIW, the 'magic' moment in hand-propping is when you hear the mag's impulse- coupling go 'clack'. It MIGHT start at another time, but you should get used to that particular sound. So when rehearsing get used to the position the prop is in when the 'clack' goes off. That's the point where your ass better be out of the way. That is also the point when you should be ANYTHING but off-balance. Where you should be is well on your way away. Be careful out there. Greg
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