Or: How we came to appreciate certain modern conveniences.
After going on several outings with the mostly restored Michigan, it became apparent that crank starting was not only not quick or reliable — it could be exhausting. As my back and arm started to give out, we (Janet & I) would request assistance from friends or random victims to please help push start the car. Everyone got out of the car except me, the driver — and the more or less able-bodied folks, including Janet, pushed the car to get it started. For those of you NOT familiar with this starting technique, I will give you a brief explanation. The sequence is as follows:
- Turn ignition on (set switch to “battery”)
- Place the car in gear. (Usually first gear)
- Push in the clutch pedal
- Have helper/victims push the car to walking speed or faster
- Release the clutch pedal. “Pop the clutch”
- Car coughs and starts & pulls away from pushers.
There are a couple of other steps that you do not want to happen, but nevertheless sometimes occur.
8. Pusher bumps face or head into the back of car when it does not start, because the car jerks to a sudden stop.
9. Pusher stumbles & tumbles forward on to pavement as car starts and suddenly pulls away.
These later 2, occurrences are to avoided if at all possible. One sure way to avoid the pusher / helper situation is to always park on a slope facing downhill. But, this is not always possible. Indeed, finding “just the right location” can require lots of random driving around looking for a slope that will work. We know this, because we have done it.
Janet & helpers (victims) push start the Michigan. Note: There is no slope to help us.
The beauty of being a member of the Horseless Carriage Club is that its membership includes folks with a huge reservoir of cranky old car knowledge. “Ah yes, Craig you still don’t have an electric start. How old are you? 70? Maybe you should consider the condition of your back.” Or ….. this even more important observation: “Um – Craig, Janet really likes these old car events? Right? Will her patience or upper body strength hold out indefinitely? You had better install an electric starter.” So, I did. To find out what was involved, please go to the Post entitled: Installing the Electric Starter. (currently being drafted – Aug. 23, 2024)