No juice

A: I will share the technique that has always worked well for me; however, pilots should consult the pilot’s operating handbook and get training before attempting to hand-prop. This is not the only way, but the way I have found that works best. And it’s as safe a way to do it as any. A competent pilot at the controls is best and will eliminate many of these steps, but that is not always an option, especially when flying solo.

On the outside, tie down the tail and chock the main wheels. Or leave the airplane tied down. Ideally the propeller is sitting over a hard surface or dry grass; no mud, wet grass, or puddles as you do not want to slip and fall. Inside the cockpit, control stick or yoke forward, prime as you normally do, crack the throttle open to the normal start position, turn on the magnetos, and shut the fuel selector off; a safety precaution that will cause the engine to quit shortly after start in case things go wrong.

At the front of the airplane, place the palms of both hands on the propeller blade closest to the 10 o’clock position. Do not wrap your fingers around the blade. All at once, pull the propeller down with both hands and back away at the same time. If it starts on the first try, wonderful! If not, repeat until the engine starts.

With the engine idling, walk around to the cabin door, close the throttle, and turn the fuel selector on. Remove the tail tiedown and the chock on the opposite side of the cabin door. Lastly, while standing at the cabin door, remove the last chock and get in. You are now ready to fly.

Craig Brown is a senior aviation technical specialist in the AOPA Pilot Information Center. 
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