Why does my engine only start after I release the key??

[transam]

I have been having issues with my motor actually only starting when I release the key?? Car ran fine for many years, As a precaution I installed a new ballast resistor, a new coil, and a new orange box. I did replace the ignition key several months ago and it was starting fine after replacing it, so this seems to be something new?? I have not done anything with the starter relay?? I am running out of things to check. I did check the connections at th bulkhead connector and also at the ignition switch harness under the steering column. They appeared to be fine. Any ideas. The car turns over fine but will not fire until I release the key??

 

[Challenger RTA]

Sounds like the run and start wires are switch somewhere. Check the steering column plug and the bulkhead connector. Make sure there in the right location.

22 Brown 23 Blue Remove connector under hood. Connect test light and check if it's working correct. You should only have power to the brown when in the skey is in the start position.

 

[tonysrt]

Could be new ignition switch has failed in the start position with voltage not going to the coil and bypassing the ballast resistor. You may need 2 people to check this out. 1 turning the key to the start position and you checking voltage at coil.

 

[Katfish]

Agreed, that's where I'd start.
Measure voltage to coil/ballast resistor while trying the key.
Disconnect connector on column and you can do it yourself.
Ignore stuff at bottom, that's for a 3G swap.

 

[toolmanmike]

I have been having issues with my motor actually only starting when I release the key?? Car ran fine for many years, As a precaution I installed a new ballast resistor, a new coil, and a new orange box. I did replace the ignition key several months ago and it was starting fine after replacing it, so this seems to be something new?? I have not done anything with the starter relay?? I am running out of things to check. I did check the connections at th bulkhead connector and also at the ignition switch harness under the steering column. They appeared to be fine. Any ideas. The car turns over fine but will not fire until I release the key??

Dual ballast resistor? That's usually the issue.