You shouldn't have to release the clutch when the diesel starts, it should kick out automatically, the spring latches are too tight on the pinion gear.

the only ring gear to worry about is on the main engine flywheel. the idea is the pinion brake is applied before and while you lift the pinion lever so the pinion isnt rotating and meshes nicely with the ring gear. its quite normal for the pinion to turn with the pony running even though the clutch isnt engaged hence why their is a brake.

the brake operation is the reverse of engaging the pinion clutch so if to engage the clutch you pull to the rear of machine to brake you push forward.

so its possible the brake isnt working becuase your not applying it properly or the brake discs are worn (i dont know if there is an adjustment for the brake discs).

once the main fires it should automatically throw the pinion clutch and pinion out of engagement you will hear the pony change note it should rev up and run more freely and if you finger tip feel the pinion lever it should have weight on it, when meshed properly the reverse is true and it should feel light.

if this doesnt throw out on its own the pinion latches need attention.

trainzkid88 it will throw the pinion out but will not release the clutch. You have to pull that lever back to release the clutch.

yes its been a while since i started our machine. now that i think about it the clutch is manual but the pinion release is automatic.