'64 with a 401-just installed new plugs, new ignition switch and a rebuilt carb. Previous owner installed electronic ignition. When you turn the key to start it will start, but when you release the key to the on position, it stalls and won't stay running. This car was shipped and was giving problems starting during the transport, so my best guess is that the starter solenoid took a beating and needs to be replaced. Sound like a place to start? Or should I be looking at something else?
Check for voltage to the ignition system in the run position. It may only be getting voltage in the crank position.
What Larry said. The starter solenoid is a large relay/switch. It gets low amp power from the starter switch that "latches" the large contacts and supplies the higher amp load to the starter. If it turns the starter over enough for the engine to fire, it is probably good.
Ok so the distributor cap was loose and on backwards! The plug wires were mixed up, too. So out with the electronic ignition, back in with points, distributor cap, rotor and two new condensers one on the coil, one on the distributor. Now it starts right up, stays running and runs great!
The backwards distributor cap was the previous owner's handiwork! I'm surprised this car even ran at all!
