Some fancy machine work!
Assuming gasoline, I guess you crack the valve to get it running then shut it? Setup is like the old "anti-foulers" for keeping plugs clean on an oil burner. Thinking it should fire ok but the timing will need some tweaking.
Just one ?
Seems strange that the original setup can't crank with enough oomph. Could always try a racing starter or heavy gauge wire to the starter or a 24 volt source for it.