Bump start a C7?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 204
Likes: 61
From: Clinton Twp Mich
Bump start a C7?
With a weak battery and a M7 transmission, Has anyone tried to push start your Corvette? I'm assuming the Start Button has to be green first?
I forgot to say "Hypothetically, In an Emergency"
I forgot to say "Hypothetically, In an Emergency"
Last edited by Chevette!?!?; Jun 12, 2018 at 12:51 PM. Reason: Emergency situation
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 6,486
Likes: 1,659
From: Las Vegas NV
With all the electronics needed for the C7 to run, I doubt you'd be able to push start a C7 with a weak battery, even if it could be done without damage.
Old cars from the 1960's and 70's can run without a battery, but the C7 is MUCH different, and is as much computer as gasoline engine.
The C7 absolutely needs a good battery (or a strong jump system in place) to supply good power to its computers to run.
Old cars from the 1960's and 70's can run without a battery, but the C7 is MUCH different, and is as much computer as gasoline engine.
The C7 absolutely needs a good battery (or a strong jump system in place) to supply good power to its computers to run.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 204
Likes: 61
From: Clinton Twp Mich
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 3,960
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I wouldn't try it-a potentially expensive experiment like this when jump packs and other safer methods are readily available. In addition to its starting and storage roles the battery also functions to absorb surges on the power bus and a very compromised battery without assistance from something else (like a jump pack) is not going to absorb those transient spikes which can damage other very expensive parts.
Push starting is best reserved for those vintage cars with carbs, points and breaker ignition, and no electronics beyond headlights and an AM radio
Push starting is best reserved for those vintage cars with carbs, points and breaker ignition, and no electronics beyond headlights and an AM radio
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2015
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From: Lagrange KY
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Racer
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 395
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From: Goderich, ON
Not ideal, but I think it would work. The alternator starts making power as soon as it spins.
Although the electronics aren't as heavy as a Corvette, I have bump started my 2001 Trans Am numerous times.
Although the electronics aren't as heavy as a Corvette, I have bump started my 2001 Trans Am numerous times.
Race Director
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 10,909
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From: Phila Suburbs 2023 C8 & 2013 650ix
Lots of baloney here.
If you have enough battery power for the dashboard to light up when you push the start button for 5 seconds with your foot off of the brake and enter the "Service Only Mode" you can bump start the engine just like your old Chevette. No harm and no foul.
If you have enough battery power for the dashboard to light up when you push the start button for 5 seconds with your foot off of the brake and enter the "Service Only Mode" you can bump start the engine just like your old Chevette. No harm and no foul.
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2011
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From: Holly Springs NC
St. Jude Donor '16-'17,'22,'24
Anyone here remember the good old chrome bumper days when someone would push a car with another car to get it to start?
I'm sure one of those old chrome bumper cars could push a C7, but it might, just might leave a mark.
I'm sure one of those old chrome bumper cars could push a C7, but it might, just might leave a mark.
Moderator emeritus
Joined: Jun 2001
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From: Jacksonville Florida BWO Dayton, Cincinnati, Bloomsbury NJ, Cincinnati
2015 C7 of the Year Finalist
I did it for my 2007 C6, it should be just fine if you can get it rolling without messing up a piece of plastic pushing it.
Elmer
Elmer