Hi guys,

So I have a car with xj6 running gear.(Circa 1972-3)

It did start last weekend but today would not.

turn of the key it fires momentarily, then shuts off as soon as ignition key it let go and springs back from starter motor engagement position.

oddly I did notice if I let it start and hold the key ever so slightly in the position to engage the starter it will run as normal and rev freely.

I only did this momentarily in fear of damaging the stater motor.

Do these symptoms sound like a bad starter relay?

It is as if it’s giving the coil power to start then killing the ignition as the key springs back.

Many thanks for taking the time to read this

Eddy

 

Hi, you need to identify what sort of coil and possibly ballast resistor set up is on your car. A quick bypass would be a separate 12 volt feed from the battery direct to coil and if it continues to run then the problem is in the feed from the ignition switch to coil. Assuming one is fitted my money would be on a faulty ballast resistor. Regards Simon

 

Hi Simon,

yes I do have a ballast resistor fitted.

That is a good idea so I will test as you have suggested tomorrow. I recall an mg of mine with a failed ballast resistor refusing to start years ago so that would be a nice easy fix

Much appreciated
Edward

 

Sounds as if it could be an ignition switch problem if a tiny movement on the key keeps it running.

 

As a quick update you were correct Simon, it was the ballast resistor.

I put a 12v feed to the coil and she fired up first turn of the key and ran well.

New ballast resistor now on order

many thanks