A heavy metal lever that slots into the front of the crankshaft pulley on historic and antique vehicles. The operator manually turns the handle to force the engine through its compression cycle and initiate combustion. It was the primary method of starting cars before electric starter motors became standard, and remained as a backup tool on agricultural and military equipment for decades.
Make sure you keep your thumb tucked on the same side as your fingers when you pull that starting handle, or a backfire will snap your wrist.
The golden rule of using a starting handle is to always pull upward with an open grip. If the engine backfires and kicks the handle backward, an open grip allows the handle to slip out of your hand safely.
Also heard as
- hand crank
- crank handle
Related terms
Starter motor
A high-torque electric motor that engages the engine flywheel to crank the engine until it runs under its own power.
Antique car
A surviving older vehicle that qualifies for special historical registration.
Classic car
An older vehicle maintained for its historical interest or aesthetic appeal rather than daily transportation.