my 1985 xj6 won't crank with the key, will crank with remote switch

 

Hi '85Jagbait,

Welcome to the Jaguar Forums! It's great to have you with us!

I have moved your first post from an unrelated thread in the X300 forum to start your own thread here in the XJ6 & XJ12 Series I, II & III forum. This is the proper forum in which to post questions about your Series III XJ6.

Please visit the New Member Area - Intro a MUST and post a required introduction so we can learn something about you and your Jaguar and give you a proper welcome.

Cheers,

Don

 

Well, I'm no expert, but as I understand it the remote switch is meant to bypass the key switch, so I reckon I'd be looking at the key switch - loose/disconnected terminals?

It's a later car than what I'm used to, so there could be some kind of relay or card somewhere in the circuit, but still - it couldn't hurt to take a look under there and confirm all is clean and tight in ignition switch land.

 

Yes, it is very likely wear in the ignition switch itself. You might try jiggling the key while trying to crank (perhaps easier to say than to do). A replacement switch is probably called for.
i had exactly this issue with my MGB after 28 years of daily use.

 

Where are you connecting the remote switch? I had a similar issue and it was the relay that was bad! It can all be traced with a test light! I was getting 12 volts to relay when in start position , but nothing coming out!!