ORIGINAL: BobH
Michael, I would disagree that these engines are designed to start with a few flips. Most of these engines are industrial engines converted to use in planes. Those engines are not hand started but employ a pull rope starter (in most cases). This isnt to say that most engines can't be hand started because most can. Still using a starter is a completely proper alternative. A cold engine likes to be wet for starting. Choke until fuel is obvious then open the choke, add a few clicks of throttle and start. If its very cold you may need to partial choke, start and release the choke. When warm its not usually necessary to choke but warm applies to the engine and not the ambient temp. Transition and midrange can sometimes be a problem for smooth operation because most industrial engines are run at or near full throttle. So this sometimes translates into our Plane use, but not always. Depends on how much extra work has been done with regard to timing, porting etc.
Regards BobH.
Bob the Taurus Engine line, like most Aero model gas engines are designed to be hand flipped or started... Yes many of these engines evolve from industrial engines such as chainsaws and weedwackers. BUT there is a grand difference in the use and therefore the starting procedure. The predominate difference is the electronic auto ignition system. This allows the engine to start at 4 degrees or so timing as compared to the more common industrial setup which yields a magneto of some sort or maybe a CDI and use somewhere around 28 degrees timing... BIG difference in needs here... Thus the pull start and or electric starter.
Any way I haven't met a gas engine, when properly setup and working that could no be hand started with an electronic ignition system....