I've seen lots of engines damaged by using it. Usually what happens is there is some other problem, fuel or ignition related and the engine won't start. So a novice grabs a can of starting fluid, and instead of just giving it a bare whiff of ether, they hose it. That's when the piston and cylinder run completely dry of oil and get damaged, especially if the engine actually does start.
On four strokes, I've heard them detonate so hard that I was surprised the head(s) didn't blow off or the pistons break when someone hoses them down with starting fluid. All in all just not a good thing unless there's no other way, and I can't imagine that unless it is 30 below zero and you didn't have an engine pre-heater and you need to get your diesel started because your wife is in labor.....
AV8TOR
Last edited by av8tor1977; 01-22-2014 at 06:44 PM.