Posted by Laurence Monkhouse on November 23, 2006 at 18:02:15 from 80.3.128.6 user Laurence_.
In Reply to: Re: Beckfoot launch posted by Jock on November 23, 2006 at 16:28:47:
You may be right - but there wouldn't have been much time between the introduction of Start Turner engines in 1929 and SA. But there were others - perhaps Brooke Marine of Lowestoft.
Have you ever tried to start a Stuart Turner Marine engine? It goes something like this:-
1) Wind the starting handle over and over again with no result except bruised knuckles (or bruised other parts if you are unlucky)
2) Take out the plug and put it on the galley flame for ten minutes.
3) Light a match and place it still burning over the spark plug hole.
4) Wind again, very cautiously.
There will be a loud bang and a sheet of flame. If you are lucky the match will sail out of the companionway and over the side. If you are unlucky the ship will catch fire.
5) Pick up the plug, burning your fingers, put it back in the hole, screw it tight and attach the lead.
6) Wind again. There is quite a good chance it will start this time. If not, then go back to 2)