1969 Camaro, Big block, automatic and HEI distributor.
Engine will fire and die when ignition switch is released.
If I jumper from the battery terminal to the "BAT" on the distributor cap, engine will start with key and continue to run. Then when turning off the ignition switch with the key, the engine will not shut off.

I have replaced the resistor wire from the firewall connector to the distributor with a stranded wire.

Anyone have experience with this type of electrical gremlin?

Thanks,
Mike

 

You're descibing either a faulty ign switch on top of the steering column next to the firewall, or a mis-aligned ign switch.

Welcome, Mike. Enjoy the journey.

 

Thanks Everett. I replaced the switch months ago (Autozone) so I'll check to see if it moved or needs replaced again.

Huge thanks again!

Mike

 

You apparently may not have connected to a "key on" power source when you wired the HEI to full 12 volts. Where did you grab power from? You can confirm when the wire is live in relation to key position with a test light or meter.

 

Yes, I was not clear with my message.
Previously I had replaced the resistor wire from the firewall connector to the HEI "BATT" location.

Then months later, the car started having the current "fire but quit" problems. I then jumpered directly from the battery to the HEI so it was not a switched location explaining I guess the problem with not turning off.

I have now pulled the ignition switch from under the dash and will go to a parts store for a new one.

Thanks for the reply!
Mike

 

Thanks again guys, here is an update:

I connected a meter onto my wire to the distributor and received a reading of 4.5 Volts with ignition switch on. So I replaced the previous wire (that worked last week) with a new one run through the firewall to the fuse panel and connecting at the "Ign" blade. That reads 12.5V

Still not running, I had pulled the neutral safety switch so I'm thinking that is messed up now.
Thanks for your help so far,
Mike

 

OK, fixed.

Following the advice of Everett and Camaro 69, it's running great.

I did pull the neutral safety switch causing a different no-start problem so that needed reset and reinstalled but all is good now.

Great help on the forum, thanks!

Mike

 

You're welcome from all of us.
Glad to read you're on the road again.