I've tried it both ways. Stuffing a rope in the spark plug hole, and using the pin. The pin method is a lot better. You can usually pull off the air hose without removing the Oetiker clamp, then just shove it back on when done. The "nail" works well since you can leave the head on so it won't get lost down the hole, and it is about the correct length. To long of a pin and it is difficult to get past the carb, but to short and it won't engage the slot in the crankshaft throw.