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I would caution everyone to be very careful priming small Continentals. Unlike most other engines, the primer on our engines injects the fuel into the inlet spider right above the carburetor. Any liquid fuel quickly leaks out of the carb into the intake box where it is a fire in waiting. The primer nozzle should atomize the fuel, but in cold conditions this is fleeting at best. Also, the Ercoupe setup typically uses a non-standard nozzle and the atomization characteristics are suspect, especially if someone has replaced the original nozzle, made from unobtanium, with a standard AN fitting, which will not atomize at all. Priming with the accelerator pump in a Marvel Carb is even worse as the throttle is wide open when the fuel is introduced, aiding its rush to the air box. If you feel compelled to pump, do it while the engine is cranking. My suggestion is to prime only with the engine turning over. What's the worst that could happen? It starts, right? ;) If you have a Marvel and no primer, get a primer. If you have a Stromberg and no primer, pull the throttle all the way shut. Mags off, crank for 4-12 blades, depending on temp. Mags on. A good engine will start on the first blade down to about 30*. Below that, get a primer or preheat or both... It is better to under prime and not get started than over prime and flood or worse set fire to your engine. John Cooper Skyport Services PO Box 249 4996 Delaware Tnpk Rensselaerville, NY 12147 518 797-3064 ========================================================================== ==== To leave this forum go to: http://ercoupers.com/lists.htm Search the archives on http://escribe.com/aviation/coupers/
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