Start an Old Car with a Screwdriver: The Curious World of Ignition Bypassing

Yes, you can start some older cars with a screwdriver under specific conditions. This medieval technique, often associated with a simpler era of automobiles, can be both curious and enlightening for modern-day tech enthusiasts and vintage car lovers. Let's delve into the fascinating world of ignition bypassing!

The Art of Old Car Staring

Start a car with a screwdriver or even a spoon? Surprisingly, it's not as far-fetched as it sounds, especially for older cars with traditional mechanical ignition systems. Here’s how some skilled individuals manage to get an old car running using unconventional means.

Access the Ignition Switch

The first step is to access the ignition switch. In some older vehicles, you'll need to remove the steering column cover to get to it. This can be a delicate process, requiring careful handling to avoid damaging the delicate electrical components.

Locate and Identify the Wires

Once you have access to the ignition switch, the next step is to locate the battery starter and ignition wires. These wires are often color-coded; for example, red is typically used for the battery, while yellow or green might indicate the ignition circuit.

Bypass the Ignition

The key part of the process is bypassing the regular ignition key. Using a screwdriver, you gently touch the battery wire (positive) and the ignition wire together. This can "trick" the ignition system into thinking the key was inserted, triggering the start sequence.

Starting the Engine

To actually start the engine, you might need to touch the starter wire with the screwdriver just long enough to engage the starter motor. Be prepared; this can be a delicate operation and requires quick, precise action.

Caution and Safety

While starting a car with a screwdriver might seem like a fun stunt, it's important to recognize the inherent risks involved. Modern vehicles often have advanced security systems that can detect such tampering and prevent the car from starting.

Furthermore, attempting to start a car this way can potentially damage the electrical system or components. Always prioritize safety and legality when working with older vehicles. If in doubt, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

True Stories of Screwdriver Starts

Many have reported successful screwdriver starts for various makes and models. One interesting anecdote involves a car mechanic who used a spoon rather than a screwdriver to start a vehicle. As a clever alternative, this mechanic avoided drawing unwanted attention by using a spoon, as it was less suspicious than a screwdriver.

Another story involves a Ford Escort diesel van. A friend was in a tight spot as they needed to start the van urgently. Drilling the lock barrel was an ongoing process, but they managed to bypass the traditional method by simply activating the starter with a screwdriver. Fortunately, the van was in neutral, allowing it to start up unexpectedly.

Techniques and Limitations

Some old vehicles are more prone to this kind of start. For instance, older Fords or vehicles from the 1970s and 1980s might be easier to start with this method. In these vehicles, the ignition and the starter systems are often connected in a way that bypassing the ignition can engage the start mechanism.

However, even in these cases, the engine might not run properly after the screwdriver is removed. This is because the ignition system also needs to be activated for the engine to run. In some vehicles, the ignition coil and the starter solenoid share the same power circuit, meaning that simply touching the starter wire might allow the engine to start but not keep running without the ignition being engaged.

Conclusion

Starting an old car with a screwdriver is a technique that requires both knowledge and skill. While it can be a fascinating experiment for car enthusiasts, it's crucial to handle these operations with caution. Always ensure that you have the necessary safety measures in place and that you're familiar with the risks involved.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to start an old car, consider seeking professional assistance. The preservation of the car and your own safety should always be your top priority.