How to Start a Single Engine Propeller Aircraft (non Fuel Injected)

The first thing to do before starting or flying any aircraft is to perform a preflight check involving a walk around. For this tutorial, you should check around the propeller for any objects near by that could be "picked up" by the turning propeller. This includes making sure that any toe-bar you used is safely stowed on board. You should also check the engine oil. Yes, an aircraft does have a dip-stick, just like your car.

Once the walk-a-round is complete, jump in the aircraft and strap yourself in with the seat belt. Make sure you have positioned your seat so that you can reach the toe breaks on the rudder pedals. Before going anywhere near that key, press firmly on both break pedals, and make sure you have good pressure - and that neither pedal sinks to the floor indicating a leak in the break system. If you are in a high-wing Cessna, you can look out of the window to check for break fluid leaks around the wheels. Keep your feet firmly on the breaks througout the engine start process.

Check that the Fuel Shut off valve is selected to BOTH (Cessna 172, 182), or ON (Cessna 150/152), or whichever tank has the most fuel (Piper). Make sure that all electrical switches are in the off and down position. If you have an Avionics switch that controlls all devices, that makes your job much easier. Otherwise, make sure all radios, transponders, autopilots, landing lights, etc are off.

There are a number of switches that control the lights of the aircraft. One of which is the beacon light. It is a Federal regulation that this flashing light be on at all times while an aircraft is operating. Usual practice is to leave the swtich on for the beacon light. Ensure that the switch is in the UP position.

Next, the Mixture control needs to be pushed all the way in. The mixture control is the RED engine lever, to the right of the throttle. It controls the amount of fuel that goes into the engine. During flight it is used to adjuct the fuel/air ratio to provide better performance, and better "gas mileage."

Check that the Carburetor Heat lever is pushed full forward. On a Cessna, this is the smaller black engine control with a square head to the left of the throttle lever. This controls where the air for the combustion chamber comes from.

Take a good look outside to make sure noone is near the propeller, or close behind you where something could be blown once the engine is running. It is a good idea to yell "Clear Prop" to let others aorund know you are about to start the engine.

Switch the Master swtich to the up (on) position. The Master switch is the red switch that usualy consists of two switches right next to each other. One controls electrical power from the battery, the other controls electrical power from the alternator. Make sure that both of these RED switches are in the UP (on position). Once switched on, you will notice the beacon light start to flash. You will also hear the whine of the instrument cooling fans.

If the engine is cold, you will need to prime the engine. Pull out and "stroke" in the primer lever, located near the ignition key. You may need to give 3 -4 strokes depending on how cold the engine is. Once complete, ensure that the primer lever is puched all the way in and locked. You will see the lever has a little "key" to it that allows you to push it in through an indent, then turn it to lock it from coming out again.

Move the throttle lever about 1/4 of an inch forward. The throttle lever is the enging control with the round black knob.

Turn the ignition key to the right, from OFF to START. The propeller will start turning. Hold the key there until the engine catches, and stays running. This usually takes longer than with a car. Once started release the key which should then remain in the BOTH position.

Check the oil pressure guage to ensure the reading is within the GREEN area. If there is a problem and the indication is not within the acceptable range, pull the Mixture level to the idle-cutoff position (all the way out), this will stop the engine.

Congratulations, you have started a non fuel injected propeller engine.