Can you push-start a diesel-engined car?

[Ayahuasca]

Or does the higher compression make it almost impossible? For some reason I woke up this morning pondering this..

[Ozzie Osmond]

Yes you can.

(No it doesn't)

[Stu R]

Yep

[redstu]

Not if it's an auto!

[heebeegeetee]

If having to do it in reverse make sure you don't face-plant into the windscreen when the driver lets the clutch up.

[Stu R]

heebeegeetee said:

If having to do it in reverse make sure you don't face-plant into the windscreen when the driver lets the clutch up.

Conversely, if you're the driver, make sure you give no notice or indication as to when you're going to let the clutch out

[heebeegeetee]

Stu R said:

heebeegeetee said:

If having to do it in reverse make sure you don't face-plant into the windscreen when the driver lets the clutch up.

Conversely, if you're the driver, make sure you give no notice or indication as to when you're going to let the clutch out

That's when knee-jerk reactions can be best.

Edited by heebeegeetee on Saturday 22 May 12:18

[warmfuzzies]

I have, 4 soldiers helped in my Audi 80TDI, dropped it into second gear, and watched them all crunch up on the boot, woops moment.......... sorry guys...

[Eggman]

Conventional diesels are often a lot easier to bump than petrols, reason being the way the fuel gets ignited - as long as there's enough battery to open the fuel stop solenoid and it's not freezing cold, the engine is pretty much going to fire the first time a cylinder reaches TDC lickety spit.

Petrol engines require enough life in the battery for a spark, and given the likely reasons for bump starting them that frequently isn't the case.

Parking on big hills or tow starting is the best medicine for uncooperative starters, I find.