Good discussion and analogies.
Makes me think of my 1965 Essick vibratory roller. It had always been difficult to start. I does not get used much, stored in a remote location with no electricity, the battery box is small and can only accommodate a single battery and since the glow plugs in the 282 are rated at 11 volts, I cannot jump start it with my work truck.
So, I installed the largest CCA battery I could get, made up the largest and shortest battery cables I could and ran a ground directly to the starter mounting bolt. I also pulled the starter and had it rebuilt at my local starter/alternator shop. When I brought it in he confirmed that it was pulling far more amps than it should. All of this has made a big difference in getting that old beast roaring.
So Bob, again, if you choose not to fix the ACR, it may be helpful for you to make sure that all these other things are in the best condition they can be.
Good luck, and Happy New Year all.
