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Old 08-07-2008 | 09:53 PM
  #14  
MikeL
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From: Bloomington, MN
Default RE: Starting engine for the 1st time

The best instructions you can get are found in three words: get experienced help.

There is no set number of turns. Four turns seems far too rich to me, but I don't have a 46AX. I've got a 46FX, which would need somewhere around 2.5 turns to run very rich. It depends on the fuel, the air temp, humidity, etc.

You'll get a lot of varying advice from people of varying experience levels and skill. What you choose to do is up to you, but the three words I mentioned will get you up and running in the safest, fastest, and best way. You're getting an instructor, right? Why not wait until you meet them at the field the first day to run the engine? An AX doesn't need any significant break in time. Run a tank through it on the ground while you get briefed on how to properly fuel, prime, start, and adjust your engine. Let it cool, then take the trainer up for your first lesson.

I know it's hard to wait and everyone wants to run their engine, but you'll have the greatest success in doing what I've suggested. The fun in this hobby happens in a lot of different ways. Burning up your new engine or damaging it by running it too rich (yes, that does happen with ABC-type engines!) probably isn't fun.