Shouldn't be a problem using a starter - I, and everybody else I fly with, uses them. If for no other reason, it does keep you fingers out of the prop. I've used them for years and have had no ill effect from them. I could pull the back plate off my K&B Torpedo .40 and check, but last I remember it just plain wore out the ring, piston, rod, etc. and the case/backplate/crank are all ok. This engine dates to the late '70's also.

Hogflyer