Following recent discussions and comments regarding a "Stirling" engine as a replacement for a heating recurculation pump driver etc. I am genuinily curiuous as to how an engine of such type can be self starting. Having an interest in external and internal combustion engines I am mystified about how either sort of engine can start it's cycle without some additional mechanical / witchcraft type electronic assistance, have I missed something ?? or do I need to try furthur delving into the free energy / Tesla came from Saturn groups ?!?!! Mark G.