Electric starting motors were optional for most tractors up to the 1950s. Even when one of these older tractors was equipped with an electric starter, it was powered by a 6 volt battery, as opposed to the more reliable 12 volt systems on modern tractors. Having a secondary way to start these older tractors was almost a necessity. Knowing properly hand crank your older tractor's engine to get it started is essential to prevent possible injury.
Instructions
1. Apply the tractor's brakes and chock the wheels to prevent unwanted movement. Put the transmission in neutral and disengage the PTO (power take off) if your tractor is so equipped.
2. Make sure conditions are ideal for starting your tractor so that you do not have to crank it unnecessarily. Do this by making sure the ignition system has been tuned up and the carburetor is adjusted properly. Dry with a towel any ignition wires that may be wet from sitting outside. Set the choke and throttle as you normally would to start your particular tractor's engine.
3. Insert the crank into the crank hole below the radiator at the front of the tractor. If your tractor is equipped with a permanently mounted hand crank, you must push the crank inward toward the engine to engage the crank before each cranking stroke. When you let go of the crank, an internal spring pushes the crank outward and keeps it from engaging the engine.
4. Turn the ignition key on. Turn the gas petcock. This is normally located near the carburetor and is usually accessible without having to open the hood. Move the spark lever (if your tractor has one) in the direction needed to retard the spark, which will prevent the engine from kicking back while cranking.
5. Grasp the handle of the engine crank by placing your thumb over the top of the handle next to your index finger. Do not oppose your thumb to the rest of your fingers by wrapping it around the handle. Pull up on the handle to crank the engine, then remove your hand quickly. Do not use a downward stroke, or push the handle down, as you could be injured if the engine kicks back. Crank as many times as needed until the engine is running.
6. Remove the handle from the front of the engine, or release the handle if the crank is permanently mounted. Adjust the spark lever as needed until the engine is running smoothly. Remove the wheel chocks.
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