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Old 14th October 2010 | 22:38
  #26 (permalink)  
Pilot DAR
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Obviously you will have the mags off when pulling through, but you still consider the prop hot and take appropariate precautions.
Yes...

With all of the chatter here about the need, or at least benefit, of pulling the engine through proir to start, lets not overlook a very real hazard. The only time I have ever damaged an aircraft was during an unexpected start during pulling through. Unsafe and embarrassing!

On another occaion (different plane) I was hand starting for a trusted friend. I called "mags off", he called "mags off". I pulled the prop through. The engine started, and ran. I glared at him through the running propeller, so as to convey my unhappiness about his error in ignition selection. To convince me he had not made an error, he held up the keys, which I saw through the windshield, and turning propeller. Failed key switch.

EVERY time you put your hand on the prop, you should be ready for the engine to start, both in propeller clearance, and aircraft restraint. If you have ANY doubt about swinging a prop safely, don't do it!

That said, during winter starts, and particularly when a preheat is not possible, I very certainly "limber up" and prime an engine by hand - as long as the aircraft is restrained, and I have satisfied myself with a prior live mag check.
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