Colin,

Yes, to the "NO ether, anywhere in sight".

The last run on the PAW was with the 10% Amsoil mix. This was ALSO used for the prime. Notice the deep red colour of the mix in the prime bottle at the very beginning. THAT, is with 20 oil, 10 Amsoil and 70 kero. No ether to dilute the colour.

Note the ice cube on top of the cylinder. The first try was a no go but a bit more compression and she lit right off, with no problems. Note that I got on the compression screw right away. Trial runs, before the video was taken, showed that a start could be had with a full half turn increased compression but that nearly immediately, you had to back off and carefully note the tone and adjust. But, it doesn't take long for all to stabilize to get your final setting.

I'm glad to hear that the old caveat is dying. No doubt there are very good reasons for it, the engine guys do want your engine to run and last a long time for you. But once you get past the learning curve, much convenience and joy can be had with a starter. And it doesn't have to be electric, a spring will do.