Navigating by the Stars

[Timelord]

All the diesels will not need a coil to start. Pushing them will be a little harder due to the high compression. In winter the engine may need to be warmed first as the glow plugs won't be operational without a battery. Modern diesels MAY require an electrical power source to allow the sensors to actuate the start up procedure. Older diesels just need the fuel cut off solenoid bypassing.
The EMP affecting a compass is an interesting concept. Is this fact? Would a "Silva" type orienteering compass be affected, seeing as only the needle itself might be conductive? Alternatively, the standard military and old brass pocket type compasses come in their own flip top metal cases. Might this be adequate as shielding? Interesting!!

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Also, in modern vehicles, it would be necessary to have a battery connected to complete the circuit for the electrics. Without the battery in circuit the alternator will blow the diode pack and then there will at best be "no charging circuit" and at worst and more likely with most vehicles today, the engine will not run due the increased amount of electric/electronic control. Some diesels, especially old models (pre 2000's) will run without the battery in circuit, but the fuel cut off solenoid needs to be disabled.

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And this will still kill the alternator for further use (unless you disconnect it first -lol)