Lets keep it on starters.


I grew up with hand propping. (Did all of my PLC training in a J-3) But really! This is the 21st century. Ideas for all kinds of cheap, light weight methods to get a non-electric airplane going have been rolling around my head. The thought of my wife or grandkids hand propping leave me cold.


Air starters are light and effective. But you need to taxi to the FBO's air hose to top off the required on board tank. Or mount an on board compressor too. No good.


The old time-y "shot gun starter" looks good. Light, simple, dependable. You should first empty out the BBs If you buy your starting cartriges at the sporting goods store. Some one will eventualy forget this important step so the installation must be sufficiently robust. It should also include a clean out trap for over looked pellets. This idea appeals to me. But then came mental images of TSA hearing my plane crank and that would bring them pouring out of the terminal, crossing the runways and FBO ramp in military formation and taking me down. It would surely involve stun guns at certain NJ airports. Don't taze me bro.


I read of a T-craft owner who got an electric starter approved. He used a rechargeble, cordless drill motor. He installed a ring gear behind the prop and installed a cockpit control. I wish that I thought of it.


Then, there is this.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ecosb5mSDwo


Bob