What happened
Following a landing, the pilot waited approximately 15 minutes before deciding to test if the Cub would start while the engine was hot. The pilot intended to hand-prop the aircraft for a short local flight. Rather than seeking assistance for the hand-propping procedure, the pilot placed a chock under the wheel and attempted to start the engine alone, which resulted in the engine becoming flooded.
To clear the engine, the pilot increased the throttle, turned the magnetos off, exited the aircraft, and manually turned the propeller several times. The pilot then leaned into the cockpit to turn the magnetos back on but failed to retard the throttle. Consequently, the Cub jumped the chock, crossed a field, and struck a light pole.
Safety message
According to the FAA publication, Preventing Accidents During Aircraft Ground Operations (FAA-P-8740-20), no person should attempt to start an aircraft engine without a qualified individual at the cockpit controls. The person turning the propeller must be properly trained in hand-cranking techniques. The publication advises that if hand propping is necessary, qualified help should be used to manage engine controls and switches, and that hand propping should be avoided whenever possible.