thanks to all who replied....I too think the engine is too rich on the low end. the engine is in a Starfire II and is completely enclosed when its ready for flight. On my last attempt to start, I was having trouble removing the starting probe when the engine started and I was thinking that trying to pull the starting probe out was causing the engine to kick and run backwards. I will start leaning out the low in until the response is quick and positive after I make the test recommended by yellowaircraft

donniercjet.......I tried to reverse the starter motor wires but after two starter motors smoked, I guess thats not working....LOL