Starting car in gear....

I am a new 944 driver.

I am embarrased to report that two times yesterday I engaged the starter in gear without pushing the clutch... foot on brake. I am not thrilled with the idea of putting that stress on clutch, starter, drive train, suspension (the tail geared itself down towards the ground) etc.

Do I have a clutch safety switch inop -OR- Is it that they didnt design it into the starter circuit. When in cruise control the engine does not race away with the clutch pressed, so I beleive that the switch might be operative. Visual inspection show no apparent fault.

I know I have a bad habit of procedural starting sequence... I promised her I'd try to work on that.

Is there a fault with my clutch switch, ignition, or starting circuit?

Everyone enjoy the freedoms that we endure this 4th of July, 2004!
Kurt

Well, not to harsh, but Porsche figures that if your driving one of their cars that you have enough experience not to make such foolish errors. As you've noticed Porsches are not designed for creature comforts. When you speak to some of the engineers over at Porsche they feel that such things, such as, AC, power windows, and drink cup holders just add weight, not horsepower and are just one more thing to distract the driver.

Reading between the lines, I am understanding that car can be started in gear is the way it is designed?

I have another question.... How come I'm not supposed to let the car idle to warn up. I understand the manual states to start the car and start driving moderatly until normal temps are attained. I don't get it..... please enlighten me :)

How about the engine doesn't warm up evenly if left at idle. You'll have hot spots where the water doesn't flow as much.