A word of caution when using chicken sticks on wood props.

I continue to see pilots using chicken sticks on wood props, and I see them 'impacting' the prop (whacking it so to speak) in an attempt to start the engine. I have seen wood props damaged or develop cracks due to the continued impacts. And the cracks or damage may not be visible.

My suggestion is to never 'whack' any prop when attempting to start the engine, especially wood props.

If a wood prop were to be damaged, pieces of it may become projectiles if the engine starts causing severe injury.

Just me, but I never use a chicken stick, but use a heavy leather glove when starting any of my engines.

Colin

If you don't like the glove idea, use a 3" or so piece of heater hose on your finger. Then flip more or less normally.

Quote from: Dave Hull on June 16, 2026, 07:12:35 PMIf you don't like the glove idea, use a 3" or so piece of heater hose on your finger. Then flip more or less normally.

I actually like using a glove

That way all my fingers get some protection. And it's not uncomfortable in any way.

Colin

Have always used a piece of heater hose on a wood dowel, with the hose overhanging the end of dowel.

Quote from: Steve Thompson on June 17, 2026, 02:57:06 PMHave always used a piece of heater hose on a wood dowel, with the hose overhanging the end of dowel.

The problem I've witnessed is the pilot 'hitting' the wood prop, not 'flipping' it.

But even if flipping it, an engine back bump can impact the prop possibly causing prop damage.

I just don't know why pilots think hitting any prop is the best way to start an engine.

Colin

Just wanted to say that I used a leather glove for many decades. Thank God nothing happened to me personally but, don't think it protects you. A running prop will slice right through a leather glove just like butter. Seen it more than twice.

I use a chicken stick now so my hand's not in the salad shooter and agree to be carefull with wooden props.   

MM

I have used the spinner flip method on everything from VF40's to Fox 35's, works great no fingers in the prop. Method: pull two prime/cough flips, flip forward 5 times, flip backward 5 times, connect battery and grab spinner with the thumb and pointer and index fingers and snap. Engines starts.

Best,   DennisT

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