With regard to removal of the plug ignitor, I was taught to do so from behind, and that's what I do. I also teach students to do this. The only thing I do from the front of the engine is start the thing. All else is done from behind.

Unfortunately, the injury I experienced was with an electric, and that was because I put the prop on and did the initial motor start process (new plane process) without even thinking the transmitter throttle setting was reversed. Five stiches.

Live and learn. That will NOT happen again to me.

CGr.