HI All,
Feel certain this issue is the switch. Let me define. Turn the key to the start position and the car starts. As soon as the key is released the car dies. To be certain, what's the suggested reliable method to diagnose this problem?
Eager for your responses,
John

 

Did you recently either install an electronic distributor or a mini starter? In any case there are two wires from the ignition switch to the coil, the resistor wire that is only hot when the key is in the RUN position and the bypass wire that is only hot when the key is in the START position. If it starts then immediately dies when you release the key, it's likely this resistor wire is broken or not connected. This is another good example of why you should troubleshoot before spending money on parts that may not need replacing.

 

Joe,
I installed HEI Distributor years ago. So then your saying that when in the RUN position there is no power to the coil. If so it's the resistor wire. I'll check. Thanks.
John

 

How did you wire the HEI power?

 

There should be no resistance wire with an HEI distributor. Most people use the IGN terminal in the fuse block with a new wire to the HEI distributor. If so check the adjacent fuse which supplies power to that terminal.

 

If the car fires with the key in the START position and then dies with the key in the RUN position, there hast to be two separate wires powering the distributor, and one of them currently isn't.

 

Dealing with it tonight. Will get back to you with outcome. Thank you for your knowledge and response

 

Connect a voltmeter or test light to the BATT terminal on the HEI. You should get power in both START and RUN. If not, that's your problem.

 

I Deserved it!! The 12volt /12gauge wire replacement for the 9 volt resistor wire was crimped not soldered and came apart. "Haste makes Waste"
Thanks for your input. You know what they say ........... You can't fix stupid.