Safestart Starter System

[Dan Michaels]

Re: Safestart Starter System

Any reason it couldn't just have a rope type handle (Like on the lawnmower)?

Dan

[crispy critter]

Re: Safestart Starter System

Any reason it couldn't just have a rope type handle (Like on the lawnmower)?

Dan

It doesn't work that way. The leverage givin using the Johnney bar(pull handle on the McDowell) is already a tough pull. Trying to use a rope would be ljust like trying to wrap the rope around the crankflange and pulling it hard enough to rotate the engine and prop. Also,if they kick back it can hurt like hell depending on how/where the handle mounted because it will jerk it out of your hands...HARD. Also can break the system very easy when it kicks back unless everything is rigged just perfect with no play or slop. Once you get it dialed in and in a location you like it works pretty well. However if I had another plane with one in it I would only use it as a last resort,ie. no place to tie down,nobody to assist,etc,etc.

[jdoran]

Re: Safestart Starter System

Remeber those lawnmowers that had the ratchet spring thingy on top of the engine? You'd wind it up and flip the handle over (and pray)!!

[Forrest Barber]

Re: Safestart Starter System

I love it; kind of like the GYROCOPTER with retractable landing gear we had around here for a while.

[flyguy]

Re: Safestart Starter System

That is really quite a kludge.

As far as easing the starting process I have never had to "flip" my prop. I often just pull it thru the click point with one hand as I walk away to the side. It takes the pressure off my hand when it fires and I just pull my hand out of the way. By the time the blade comes around I am long gone.

My neighbor has that electronic ignition on the top of his 180 Continental in his Rv-4. It works fine, but there are a lot of delicate looking parts hanging around in the works. I would have to see a HP and fuel efficiency direct comparison to know whether it was worth the trouble. They really work good on V8's turning over 6,000.
DC