It is not advisable to use a starting handle on the JAP. If you have to then you may get away with it once or so. Not on a regular basis though, damage will be caused to the gear teeth in the timing chest.If a valve lifter is fitted ( and there should be) and you must try to hand start it make sure it is fully retarded. Be warned this thing could break your wrist or arm easily and if it kicked back strip all the timing gear teeth as well. This is well known by owners like me.The Matchless engine is a completely different beast and will happily start on the handle but even then must be retarded.
Ian Parkinson
Last edited by chocadoodledoo; 30/06/21 06:43 PM.
