FWIW, I used 2 heli starter wands screwed together (I think it was made by Dubro or maybe Sullivan) on my starter. I simply put a small spinner on the fan nut to give it something to grab.

The EDF idea is great... Not sure on the weight difference, but the reliability will be much better than glow at the RPMs required to fly these things. You'll also have a much easier time cleaning it up after flying.