Ok, went to start my Raptor today for the first time using the 6mm starter shaft with the Hobbico starter. When I inserted it into the hex it seemed to spin too freely, there was no reaction from the motor or any sign of compression. (not sure if there should be). I then tried reversing the power leads to the starter and when I tried starting, the hex would not turn at all. I'm stumped at this point. Anyone know what's going on? thanks.

not sure if your rotation was correct the first or second time. not familiar with the raptor, but if i guessed i'd say your second attempt you were cranking in the right direction, but the starter didn't have enough current to crank the motor. the other direction the starter just spins against a one way bearing.

first make sure the engine isn't flooded (remove plug and crank engine until fuel clears out). what size is your motor? if it still doesn't start try using a more powerful power source for your starter (like a car battery). most motorcycle sized batteries don't put out much juice for larger engines when they are new and have high compression (>.40ci).

another trick i do with my .60 engines before i start them: rotate the motor backwards until it stops on it's compression, then start it from that point. on your raptor you probably have to turn its flywheel to do this. the extra half a rotation helps the starter build the momentum to push past the compression.

a Hobbico starter doesn't have enough torque to start a new 30 sized engine and only well worn engines larger then a 30. you can partially remove the glow plug to allow compression to 'bypass' and then re-tighten it after it gets started. I've used this many times helping newbies in the past. after the engine gets broken in the Hobbicos will most often start them (30's not 60's).

kc

My Hobbico TorqMaster 180 has been starting everything from new 0S 32's to new Saito 82's. I think there are different sizes of Hobbico starters. I agree with kc, if there's something keeping the engine from turning over like being flooded ... a smaller starter won't cut it, however, a bigger starter may break something in the engine.

For the record, looking down at the starter socket, counter-clockwise rotation turns the engine over ... clockwise spins in the one-way bearing. Kinda makes sense since the main rotor spins the opposite direction due to going through one reversal of gears.
The starter spins the same direction when starting an airplane engine ... counter clockwise as viewed from in front of the prop.

Good Luck,
d.tipton

Sounds like your hydro locked and the engine can't turn. Try pinching off the fuel line and removing the gloe plug then cranking it. Stick a rag or paper towel in front of the plug hole to keep fuel from getting all over tha place. If the motor still don't turn then something else is stuck.

Bud,

Yes could be hydro locked as Rcer said. Sometimes if you didn;t tighten the fan/clutch assembly to the crankshaft enough , when it hydrolocks it will loosen and jam everything up into the clutch housing.. If it won;t crank with a heavy starter, even when the plug is loose / out , your fan has probably loosened and jammed up into the bell housing.

Hope you get it sorted.

Thank you all for your advice. I've have learned several different techniques from your suggestions. I was able to get the engine started although now my challange has shifted to keeping it running and adjusted the fuel mix.