ORIGINAL: perttime
Mmmm, what exactly makes it awkward? (I am currently an electric flyer, so do not have any set ways with glow)
I realise a high wing would get seriously in the way, but what about low and mid wing planes?
Just the idea of reaching around the prop to hold the plane gives me creeps.
When using a chicken stick, you actually have the stick in contact with the prop for about 200 degrees of rotation.... If you try that from behind the engine, the fuse and engine is in the way.
The only safe way to start then engine without reaching around the prop is to have someone else hold the plane. or have a cradle that holds the plane securely. I have a cradle built into my field box.. but honestly I only use it as a soft place to set the plane upside down while attaching wings... I usually have the tail strapped to a stake, Reach around with my left hand and hold the plane, and use an electric starter with my right.