Starting Procedures
When starting the engine the first time and during break-in it’s recommended that you run
the engine without the cowling. Also, for safety reasons do not adjust the carburetor while
the engine is running. There are two recommended ways to start the RCGF 21cc twin:
A. Manual Starting
Note: When hand starting the RCGF 21cc twin, use a thick glove or heavy duty starter
stick to protect your hand.
1. The propeller should be installed on the drive washer at the one o’clock position and at
the beginning of the compression stroke so that it’s comfortable to flip it through
compression.
2. Have someone help you hold the airplane while you start the engine.
3. Switch the ignition to ON, close the choke on the carburetor and open the throttle
slightly from the idle position.
4. Flip the propeller counter clockwise several times briskly, until a popping sound is
heard. This indicates that the engine is firing.
5. Move the choke lever to the OPEN position.
6. Set the throttle to a high idle. Set the propeller so that it is at the beginning of the
compression stroke.
7. Flip the propeller through compression rapidly. If this is done properly, the engine will
start after several brisk flips of the propeller.
8. After starting, let the engine idle for 30 to 45 seconds. Open and close the throttle
slowly until the engine runs smoothly at idle and at full throttle. Acceleration should also
be smooth. If acceleration is not smooth, adjustments to the carburetor may be
necessary (see Adjustment of the Engine.)
9. If your engine does not start, repeat steps 2-8.
B. Electric Starter Starting
A 12-24V electric starter is recommended to start the RCGF21cc twin.
1. Make sure you use a good quality, lightweight aluminum spinner.
2. Have someone help you hold the airplane while you start it.
3. Switch the ignition to ON, close the choke plate on the carburetor and open the throttle
slightly from the idle position.
4. Use your electric starter to turn the engine over for several seconds, until a popping
sound is heard. This indicates that the engine is firing.
5. Move the choke lever to the open position.
6. Set the throttle to high idle and use your electric starter to turn over the engine until it
starts.
7. After starting, let the engine idle for 30 to 45 seconds. Open and close the throttle
slowly until the engine runs smoothly at idle and at full throttle. Acceleration should also
be smooth. If acceleration is not smooth, adjustments to the carburetor may be
necessary (see Adjustment of the Engine).
8. If your engine does not start, repeat steps 2-7.