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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Plymouth Valiant Won't Start

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Expert: - 10/19/2010


Question
Got a 1972 Valiant with a slant six that won't start.
When the ignition key is cranked all the way, the engine starts but shuts down when I relese the key to the RUN position.

Thanks,   Ray

Answer
There is a white resistor block attached to the fire wall near the back of the engine. this is the ballast resistor for the ignition. It is most likely blown. When turning the key to the start side the resistor is by passed but the electricity is transferred to it in the run position.

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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