No you don't need a spring starter for the G38. Mine starts fine be hand. I choke it with the throttle fully open and ignition on. Once it pops close the throttle and open the choke, then slap it again and it should start within 2-3 flips. With the magneto engines you need to flip the prop at around 600-700rpm I believe, to get a good spark. That is why you need to slap the prop through compression. It is easy once you get the hang of it. Oh and use a thick leather glove for safety.