Security and Safety
I have been mulling over how to both secure my airplane as required by Australian law and making sure it’s safe from an accidental engine start. I want to ask for comments on my proposed solution.
I’ve done the first engine run. I set the motor control up with toggle switches (mil spec) per rotax advice because of reliability issues with key switches. I made a throttle lock and a lockable box over the switches.
Folks, the lockable box idea is inconvenient, ugly and messy. Furthermore if the switches are exposed, than anyone can at least turn the starter with awful results even if the engine won’t start because the throttle is locked. I do have grandchildren, as do friends, and one of these days I just know a kid is going to want to play when no one is around.
My solution is a SPST key switch in the starter circuit. The engine can’t be hand started. If the key switch fails, i’ll be on the ground anyway. unless they have the key, all kids can do is flatten the battery.
What are your thoughts?
