I flew JKA P-47s for a while, covered in ultracote. I suspect the fuse is about the same size or slightly bigger than the Corsair. I had no problems with hand launches using the underhand throw. And that engine was mounted upright as well.

The key was getting a bit of no-skid or sandpaper on there to allow for a good grip even when coated in oil.

I don't seem to have any pictures handy of me launching the P-47, though I probably have some around somewhere at home. I just don't have time to dig for them.

use whatever works for you, that's fine. I suspect you'd have a hard time with a dolly at most combat events, but for sport flying from a very smooth surface, I'm sure it works fine.

Like Clean, I've also seen a number of catapults. They usually worked, but every one that I've seen could also mis-fire once in a while, and it's one more thing to deal with.