ORIGINAL: gaRCfield
Well you guys were right - I was out flying one last time yesterday, and my trusty OS didn't want to hand start in the sub 40 degree weather. I was able to get a few starts by running up an electric starter with a 14v battery, then bumping the spinner.
So my question is what to do to get an appropriate starter. I know there are options of using different kinds of batteries and increasing the voltage. However, Tower sells a starter specifically for larger engines, and with that they recommend the 1.2 amp, 12v 'power core mkII' battery that I have on my 'little' starter.
//SNIP//
Thanks guys.
Here's an answer for your problems. Anyway it has forever answered mine!
#1. Check out B&P Associates, PO Box 22054, Waco, TX 76702. 254-662-5587 for
Starter options. I have TWO of the regulars. That way a heavy weekend at some Fly-In and I have well charged Starters all weekend. These are great items.
EDITED to add:
www.bp-rc.com I use them to start 1.2 c.i. 4 strokes and Zenoah G-26. Big gassers I start by hand.
#2.
Winter Starting. Take a small bottle or a 2-4 Oz. fuel tank. Fill with 1/2 glow fuel and 1/2 (there about) regular gasoline. Give a good Prime to your engine through the carb. Flip the prop several times and then light the plug. Unless you really flood it, the engine will start as if in warm weather. When I lived in Yankee-Land, that was the normal thing for winter flying. A few drops of Propelyne Oxide works well, but easy to flood and it's hard to get and store. The gasoline thing is sooo easy.