Thanks for the advice guys. Here are answers to some of your comments. I have been opening the throttle plate about 1/4 to start. I also have hand primed in an attempt to make sure the engine has plenty of fuel to start. Since the engine and fuel lines are completely cowled in, I cannot physically see how much fuel is getting to the engine during the choking operation. The engine sometimes does start better after the initial run. Reading other threads I understand that the spark is very weak in this particular engine when hand propping. I have been very careful upon setting the prop position to arrive at the magneto at the max of the throw. I will look into the 18v drill motor. (I tried it with a 12v, but not enough grunt to turn it over) I feel sure the Megatron starter would work fine, but I am trying to avoid the expense and the weight of the starter and battery.