Emergency (starter failure) tow starting a gas or diesel engine with automatic trans
 

1990 and earlier.

Emergency (starter failure) tow starting a gasoline or diesel engine with automatic transmission.
FYI: The secondary pump was deleted from ALL automatic transmissions in 1991.

I strongly recommend using a tow strap for this operation.
Even if you have towed before, be sure the person working with you understands exactly how to do this..

How To Properly Use a Tow Strap
http://autorepair.about.com/od/roadsiderepairs/ss/tow-strap-howto.htm

How To Tow Your Classic
http://classiccars.about.com/od/maintenancetips/qt/towing.htm


#1. Place the selector/gear shift lever in "N", remember to hold the brake pedal until the tow begins.

#2. Turn the key into steering lock position #2.

#3A. On older diesels with an idle speed adjuster knob, first turn the knob counter clockwise against the stop.
#3B. On vehicles with the Stromberg carburetor, briefly turn the key to the start position and depress the accelerator pedal firmly to the floor once.

#4. Begin towing vehicle up to speed.
Warning / NOTES:
* Begin trying to start at 19 MPH on a cold transmission, and 31 MPH on a warm transmission.
* Towing over 35 MPH can burn out transmission components.
* You have roughly 30-60 seconds after the engine starts cranking before the transmission must go back into "N" to cool off.

#5. Place the selector/gear shift lever in "2", "L" or "S" to crank the engine over, be aware you have roughly 30-60 seconds after the engine starts cranking before the transmission must go back into "N" to cool off.
Gasoline Warning / NOTE: Only touch the gasoline accelerator pedal when the engine is cranking over.
Diesel NOTE: Stomp the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there, until the engine starts...

#6. Be prepared to immediately place the selector/gear shift lever back in "N", when the engine starts.
Diesel NOTE: The engine needs to warm up / idle for a couple minutes before disconnecting and driving off.