Engine ignition problem

[N427EF]

And it may kick back like a mule and break your ring gear.

[BobTurner]

The left mag does have a timing retard, just no impulse coupling to boost the voltage. It shouldn't kick back unless the left mag won't produce a spark but the right one can, at the speed the starter can turn the engine.

[bird]

Ok, so impulse mags are not available with a new engine order from Vans?

Slick start is the way to go now? One day I am going to order an engine from somebody!

Bird

[Mitch757]

I have a 4347 magneto on my RV4. It is a "shower of sparks" magneto and requires a starting vibrator or the slick start equivalent. If it fires, you will get a kick back as it is operating on the advance points which are normally shorted during cranking. This allows the retard breakers to originate the spark at TDC for the start.

A good system, but I'm surprised that a new engine came with it.

Mitch

RV4...just sold

RV!2 slow build

[VETE76]

Originally Posted by BobTurner

Slick 4347 is a retard mag, not an impulse coupled (according to google!).
When you turn the prop by hand, as you go past peak compression do you hear a distinct "clunck" noise from the mag? I'm guessing not.

You need to buy a Slick start and wire it up.
Or replace the magvwith an impulse coupler model.

no clunk...........

[E. D. Eliot]

That I'd call the engine manufacturer and describe the problem to them. They should be more than happy to help you troubleshoot. Good luck - don't do anything in haste and maybe get someone in your area to double check your troubleshooting.

Please let us know what you find.

[Auburntsts]

Ok , since it appears your left mag is a retard breaker, is it wired up properly? By that I mean you should have two wires--the normal p-lead and another wire to the retard breaker terminal. My understanding is with a brand new battery it might be possible to get the engine to start, but I wouldn't hold my breath. Even if it does, eventually it won't so adding a SlickStart module really isn't an option IMO.

[Jesse]

How energetically is the engine cranking? I have run a Van's engine with no impulse coupling and no slick start for over 6 months before adding the slick start. That was because the battery was a little weaker and it only mattered on a hot start. If it isn't cranking very strongly, make sure you have a good engine to airframe ground strap and try again. I have run into this problem more than once.

And, you will want a slick start.

I don't really understand vans on the mag thing. Dual impulse coupled mags should cost less extra than a slick start, and the starting is a beautiful thing (and you can notice if one mag gets off timing just by listening to the clicks. I've never had a better hot start than with dual impulse coupled mags.

[VETE76]

Originally Posted by Jesse

How energetically is the engine cranking? seems strong

I have run a Van's engine I bought this direct from lyc

And, you will want a slick start.

I don't really understand vans on the mag thing. Dual impulse coupled mags should cost less extra than a slick start, and the starting is a beautiful thing (and you can notice if one mag gets off timing just by listening to the clicks. I've never had a better hot start than with dual impulse coupled mags.

......................

[VETE76]

ok, we installed a slick start system. now we get a lot of puffs of smoke and a few "bangs" but no start. any more suggestions?
ty
fred