The engine has no way of knowing if it's being spun by a starter or via the
clutch. BUT, they absolutely will NOT start IF the battery is stone dead.
The alternator will not excite unless there is some voltage there to do it.

--
Steve Barker



"The Real Tom" <Tom @ www.Love-Calculators.com> wrote in message
...
> On 16 Nov 2005 05:21:57 -0800, "
> > wrote:
>
>>Most likely battery or alternator. If you have a stick you can just
>>push it to start it otherwise you'll need a jump.
>
>
> As for push starting, IMHO, I would not recommeding it with today's
> cars. A serious backfire could damage the exhaust system or it's
> sensors.
>
> So, since the OP has time, I would elminate why the car is dead first.
>
> later,
>
> tom @ www.CarFleaMarket.com