Definition: Much like the pull start mechanism on a lawnmower, a pull cord is attached to the nitro engine and you pull the T-handle attached to the starter cord assembly to spin the flywheel and start the engine.
Also called a recoil starter, the pull start mechanism causes the engine to sit slightly higher, affecting the center of gravity -- a possible concern in RC racing.
These videos demonstrate the pull-start method for a nitro RC:
Also Known As: recoil starter
Alternate Spellings: pull-starter, pull-start