I had a Fuji Bt 32 and found the same thing! Whats up with that And like you the I had several Zenoah's and could hand start them. Any way so I don't think you are doing anything wrong. I went out a bought the little spring starter they sell for the motor and that works well. It weighs only 3 oz and is very effective, I liked it. The only draw back is it did cost about 70$ US.
So good luck with that.