1962 Starting Problem

[John T.]

Car starts fine. Shuts off immediately as you release the ignition key. Ballast resistor ? How can a ballast resistor be tested ?

Thanks for any thoughts.

John

[John D.]

Re: 1962 Starting Problem

John, Why not eliminate the Ballast resistor for a quick test. Jumper it and see what happens. John D.

[Jack H.]

Re: 1962 Starting Problem

What John describes IS the typical test... You can also disconnect the wires feeding the ballast and verify its integrity with an ohm meter. Problem symptoms described are typically caused by:

(1) Failed (burned out, open circuit) ballast resistor.

(2) Improper wiring connections to the ballast.

(3) Improper physical attachment of wiring harness components to the ballast.

(4) Faulty upstream wiring harness.

(5) Faulty ignition switch.

[John T.]

Re: 1962 Starting Problem

John

Just tried with a jumper across the ballast resistor. No improvement - same symptoms. Ignition switch ?

Any help is appreciated.

John

[Verle R.]

Re: 1962 Starting Problem

John,

Check for voltage to the ballast resister with ignition key on.
If no voltage, suspect wire to ignition switch or switch itself.

Verle

[John D.]

Re: 1962 Starting Problem

John, Jack and Verle seem to be on the right page for sure. I don't think anything on the FI would cause that. Now if you had a 64-65 or even a 57 FI car they will start up and run for a second or two because they use a starting solenoid in lieu of the cranking signal valve. In fact even if the cable on those units is broken the car may still start but will quickly die. It wouldn't hurt to check out the distributor or ignition coil after you checked out the wiring and ignition switch with no luck. Do you have an original 107 or an SR? If you have a service replacement try another coil. Also don't forget the to check or replace the condenser. A bad condenser might cause your problems also. Are the points open? You do have enough fuel pressure don't you? Engine fuel pump is OK? Gas OK? My 84 will start up and die with a shot of starting fluid. But won't run. Why? Cause I don't practice what I preach and the gas smells like varnish. Just today I was wishing I could go for a ride in it. That's about all I know. Try all of the above and then let us know. John D.