Comment by aw1621107

> but how do you design the pison/crank to always turn clockwise or counter clockwise (based on how you view it, obviously)?

You can design the starter motor to ensure the engine always starts up moving in the right direction, and after that it's "just" a matter of timing (e.g., spark plugs controllled electronically in more modern cars, mechanically in older ones).

> Is it possible for the crank shaft to lock up if it's perfectly oriented at 0 degrees?

That's what the starter motor is for!