I think "booting" applies to everything that doesnt work as its supposed to.

Its quite a common term used in NZ, ie: "Give it a boot", "Boot it in the guts".

I personally think the term originated in Australia around the start of their history. Once NSW was full of dirtbag English criminals sent as punishment from mother England down to the Colony of Australia the Prison/Work gang guards would give them a "boot" when they didnt work hard enough/properly - Chances are after a good kicking they would do what they were told properly and efficiantly?.

Think about how they come up with the song "Tie me Kangaroo down sport" - Whats up with that?