1938 Ford hand crank start

I think the factory lug wrench had an extension that would engage the ratchet nut on the end of the crankshaft.
However, have you looked at how well or how poorly the hole in the grill and clearance under the radiator line up for a crank? Also, the grill on a 38 is not particularly strong and would likely get damaged during crank starting. Many old cars theoretically have provision for hand cranking, but realistically push starting is the only option without damaging your grill.
 
38 coupe said:
I think the factory lug wrench had an extension that would engage the ratchet nut on the end of the crankshaft.
However, have you looked at how well or how poorly the hole in the grill and clearance under the radiator line up for a crank? Also, the grill on a 38 is not particularly strong and would likely get damaged during crank starting. Many old cars theoretically have provision for hand cranking, but realistically push starting is the only option without damaging your grill.
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....or yourself!
 
Growing up on a farm and cranking lots of battery dead Allis Chalmers 4 cylinder engines. I think Henry would not let go of the concept. Was it a good idea? I don't think so?? But I have never tried it.
Get a crank and try it. Don't put your thumb around the crank.
Just my two cents.
Regards,
Chris
 
I hand cranked my 38 Ford more than once because of a weak 3 brush generator, which I soon replaced with a 2 brush generator and regulator. I remember using the crank at Center and Main Streets in the center of the business district. Put the transmission in neutral, turn on ignition switch, set the hand brake, pull choke out 1/2 inch and pull up on crank - 1/2 turn of crank always brought the motor to life!!! And I had made the crank, using roll pins, one inside the other. Ah, the memories!!!
 
I sold my 38 std, cant remember but I am sure Henry did not design it to use the grill for the crank guide. There must be a more sturdy guide underneath. I have a crank start B Allis , an ott 9 Maxwell, several model T's, A's, and crank starting is not a problem, its a part of life
 
I'm impressed by you guys that grew up on a farm and have experience hand cranking engines. I've never done it in my life. I'd like to experience that. But also a bit afraid I would break my wrist or something. Maybe some day someone with a model T will walk me thru it, show me the safety procedures, and let me try it.
 
My go to after my '37 has been in hibernation.
 

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Here is another way to get hurt. My buddy's dad would turn his front tire to the curb, jack up the driver side rear tire. Putting it high gear he used the tire to turn over the motor until it caught.
 
My '36 has a hand crank and I used to start the car this way just for the fun of it. It always worked well for me. terry
 
In 1st gear, clutch in, ignition on, get it just barely rolling, pop the clutch, goose the foot feed, clutch in again, goose goose roar!
 
Two quick rules...
1) as mentioned above--Never wrap your thumb around the crank handle.
2) Never spin the engine. Always pull up ONLY--never push down.
 
A bones said:
Here is another way to get hurt. My buddy's dad would turn his front tire to the curb, jack up the driver side rear tire. Putting it high gear he used the tire to turn over the motor until it caught.
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I assume with someone sitting in the drivers seat?
 
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