240z starts but dies as soon key released

[Reverend]

As above, starts nicely and i can rev as long as i keep starter on, but it'll eventually burn the starter. I just run it 2 weeks ago and there were no problems.

It dies instantly as i release key from start position. Also i noticed for the first time that i can remove key in all positions. Could this be problem in ignition switch? Is there any emergency help i can give to keep it running..?

I need help fast, i gotta move the car in 2 days..

[Zforce]

Could be the switch, but check your wiring with a volt meter. The black wire with the black plastic sheath should have 12 volts in the run position and should be connected to the ballast resistor and green and yellow wire should be on the other end of the ballast resistor. The other black wire that goes to the positive side of the coil should have about 8 or 9 volts in the run position and 12 volts in the crank posistion. Hope this helps.

[ZCCOR#109]

This situation would result if the Ballast resister is bad. The electrical system bypasses the Ballast resister under start for full voltage, but as soon as you release the key to the run position the ballast resister is to be in the circuits reducing the voltage. If the ballast resister is not flowing current you loose ignition voltage to the system/plugs.

[Arne]

I agree with both of the above, the problem of dying when the key drops back to Run is either a bad ignition switch (the small electrical part screwed to the back of the ignition lock) or a bad ballast resistor. Try by-passing the resistor first, if it runs that way the resistor is bad. If the problem still persists, suspect the switch.

The problem of the key coming out in all positions is either worn pins (wafers) in the ignition lock, a worn key, or more likely a combination of the two.

[Reverend]

Ok, ballast resistor is located near coil? Can some1 give picture, ill remove it and change if i can find a proper fit from local auto store. Ignition was ok last time i started Z, but i think the lock was already worn out then, i just noticed it yesterday. Maybe the problem isn't there indeed. Thanks already

[Mikez73]

I'm not sure but I think this is a 240z. The ballast resistor shouldn't be hard to find at any rate...just follow the wire down from your coil.

[Reverend]

Thanks mate, it seems to be 240Z, at least it really looks like one. Ok, is there any DIY method to revive that ballast resistor or should i just try to find new one?

[ChrisZ]

What kind of ignition are you running, if you don't have points, you will not need the BR, then you can just slap om a 3 ohm coil

[Reverend]

Stock ignition with newer coil, (dont remember the make). Frank T from CTZCC suggested that problem is in fusible link at starter solenoid! Gotta check that too!

[sblake01]

That is a possibility also since, as I recall, that fusible link completes the 'run' circuit. You must be 'Reverend' on that site. But how does a guy from Finland end up on a Connecticut web site? I guess the same way a guy from San Bernardino, California would......

Edited March 30, 2010 by sblake01

[Reverend]

Well i was invited Theres members from germany too. And its a nice community!

[Mikez73]

Thanks mate, it seems to be 240Z, at least it really looks like one. Ok, is there any DIY method to revive that ballast resistor or should i just try to find new one?

Damn...I've got a brand new one you could have... if you weren't in Australia. That's clear on the other side of Dallas :classic: