engine starting

I do not know for sure.....

However as an Instructor I generally find that Ex GA pilots struggle with starting technique...they try to start it like a lyconental.

We have NO problems with this technique starts instantly (UL and ULS)

1) First start of the day irrespective of temp FULL choke and fully idle throttle. If you try almost any throttle it struggles.Once started idle at 2500 rpm and slowly take off the throttle to keep the engine smooth.

2) second start of the day NO choke and a little throttle

When my plane has sat for a week or two , and i go to start it, even with full choke it seems to hesitates and after 3 try's it starts and i have no problems with is starting through out the day.. any input would be greatly appreciated. 

How old is the battery? Mine was showing similar symptoms that all disappeared when a new battery was installed.

James Ryan wrote:

When my plane has sat for a week or two , and i go to start it, even with full choke it seems to hesitates and after 3 try's it starts and i have no problems with is starting through out the day.. any input would be greatly appreciated. 

Hi James,

Do you switch on your boost pump before starting the engine?

If you do fine, if you don't, I advise making this part of your pre start ritual. By doing this you both "prime" the fuel system (ensure carb float chambers are full) you also get to check the performance of the boot pump (fuel pressure/psi).

I would make sure electric systems, not required for a good start performance (everything), be turned off to reduce the electrical load on the battery.

Des's battery advise is also  good - a marginal  battery will not turn over the engine (crank) at its best starting speed and will potentially damage the Spragg Clutch ($$$$) and starter motor ($$$$) .

I judge the battery's condition by  the number & speed of engine rotations to acheive a start - any more than 3 rotations, I investigate why. There being no other cause, I replace the battery (I usually give it one chance to come good by putting it on an overnight charge)

thanks to all the responded to my engine starting issues