I LOVE Handpropping

[lynnlpitts]

Re: I LOVE Handpropping

I undesrtand and will stand down...73's, Lynn

[runon]

Re: I LOVE Handpropping

As odd as it sounds, I actually have an easier time hand propping using the BARE MINIMUM throw required as opposed to throwing a blade through. When I was chucking a blade through it'd fire backwards through the second blade. When I just give the blade an idea of which way to turn and let the charge and impulse mags take over it does a much better job on it's own.

[senior]

Re: I LOVE Handpropping

I agree with above statement wholeheartedly.
That's why it's so easy to start from behind, you just need to gently pull it thru compression stroke.

[Bravo 6]

Re: I LOVE Handpropping

Almost impressive the amount of activity on this thread except this is obviously a very serious topic. I was taught luckily to have great respect for hand propping any airplane. I started around Taylorcrafts, Luscombes, J-3's and 450 Stearmans. Always an emphasis on number one, pilot at the controls and/or aircraft tied and chalked! I got my A&P restoring a J-3 that was propped in the middle of a runway and the unfortunate pilot watched it 'almost' fly away right into a hangar!

With all due respect to the airplane and anyone within harms way, I find myself often in the circumstance of propping the plane for myself. (Way back when, in the mid 1980's , there were fewer and fewer 'line boys' that knew what 'propping' a plane was. It is an unusual luxury to have someone willing and 'capable' of propping your airplane these days! I utilize the method from behind primarily unless I am providing a 'twirl' for another fellow aviator. Always vigilant to mind the prop (I know my airplane very well and rarely have to pul more than one blade from behind) and have my hand on the throttle through the window as its firing. Ready the adjust throttle and/or cut mags if needed? With all this said, no one should ever take starting an airplane by hand lightly whether they are the ones pulling the prop or the one in the pilot seat!

Safe travels to any and all either way!