Loose fan kills

Arkie, yes an engine can start running backwards! If he was having problems getting it going and filled it with starter fluid there can be a build up in the exhaust, the thing backfires the engine runs briefly backwards using the fuel that was in the exhaust. I have had it happen while troubleshooting cars that wouldn't start. Also I have seen it a lot in the past when cars would "diesel" after they were shut off, they would wind down then blow back up through the carburetor.

~Alden