hand priming is extremely easy on engines mounted upright and i think preferred. at the same time, it checks to see if there are any airleaks you should be worried about.

hand starting... now that's a different story. i've had my fair share of hand starting. my webra (from eons ago) and my O.S. engines can start easily with a chicken stick. but man... i'd rather not have to hand start my ASP or Magnum engines...

as for the spinner... i would make sure that the nut is on tight enough. should stay one without any additional items.

my two cents.