Engine Start-up and use of Primer Switch

[Chops]

I have noticed a discrepancy regarding using the Primer Switch in the engine start-up procedures, as listed in the DCS Quickstart Guide, the DCS Flight Manual, as explained in the DCS in-game Tutorial, when compared to the Real P-51D Pilot Handbook.

 

The DCS Flight Manual on Pg. 73 states the following:

 

 

- Primer Switch. The Primer switch is used to prime the engine with fuel. The switch is spring-loaded and needs to be held in the ON (up) position to execute a prime. When the primer switch is held ON, fuel passes to the primer lines and into the induction manifold. Usually 3 or 4 seconds are sufficient to prime a cold engine. One second is usually sufficient for a warm engine. The engine should be primed only when it is turning over.

 

 

However, the DCS Flight Manual Pg. 124-125, describes the start-up as listed below:

 

- Prime the engine three to four seconds if it is cold, one if hot.

 

- Raise the starter switch cover and hold switch at START.

 

- As the engine starts, move the mixture control to RUN (AUTO RICH on earlier aircraft). If the engine fails to take hold after several revolutions, give it one second’s more prime.

 

The real P-51D Pilot’s Flight Handbook (Pg. 12 and 34) -

also states that the Primer Switch should only be used while the engine is turning over.

 

Some other interesting notes from the real P-51D Handbook are that –

 

- Battery Power should be used for emergency use only; ground power should be used

 

- Ground Crew should pull prop through several revolutions prior to start

 

- Hold starter switch on and then ignition switch should be set to both only after six prop blades have passed

I also watched a DVD called P-51 Mustang which is part of the Roaring Glory Warbirds series, and the pilot in the video basically describes needing three hands to start the Mustang.

 

So, it seems that the correct start-up procedure is to engage the Starter Switch, then simultaneously hold up the Primer Switch, followed by Mixture rich.

[Smokin Hole]

Spinning the crankshaft via the starter prior to ignition. In the plane this would be easy with two fingers. Much harder with a mouse.

[Double_D]

Certain liberties were allowed here

 

 

Some other interesting notes from the real P-51D Handbook are that –

- Battery Power should be used for emergency use only; ground power should be used

 

- Ground Crew should pull prop through several revolutions prior to start

 

- Hold starter switch on and then ignition switch should be set to both only after six prop blades have passed

this is all true but ...its a sim and as they wish to be as realistic as possible..adding ground crew running around would be taxing on everyone's system and the sim..same goes for ground crew cranking the prop several times before start up...

 

But nice observation my friend..:thumbup:

Edited May 21, 2012 by Double_D

[Chops]

this is all true but ...its a sim and as they wish to be as realistice as possible..adding ground crew running around would be taxing on everyone's system and the sim..same goes for ground crew cranking the prop several times before start up...

 

But nice observation my friend..:thumbup:

[/indent]

 

Yeah, where is Chief (paulrkiii) when you need him?

[effte]

Both methods are found in real manuals. Both work in DCS.

[WildBillKelsoe]

We need animation of the MERLIIIIINNNN!!!!