Not sure what happened - I removed the column to paint - put it back in and got a funky issue. Turn key and get a "click" - but not much else. Battery is strong and engine tuns over great when arced across at relay - where should I look first ? Red and yellow (ignition) wires have both been fried in the past as they were connected with wire connectors due to column harness being cooked, not sure if this would be related ?

Have you checked the shift linkage to make sure you are all the way into park.

48 views and no answers or suggestions should tell you something ...... if she's not in P you wouldn't even get the "click". Since you're good from relay to battery/starter, it's gotta be before that point I would say, but I don't do electrical. It does sound like there was a previous issue so ............

I think I'm going to look into the ignition switch as this is more than likely the issue with the burnt wires - how hard to replace/rebuild on my car ?

Just a possibility, but when column was re-installed, you may have it in too far or not far enough causing linkage to be out of adjustment. Move lever to each gear mark and try to start. Ignition harness could also be fried. So many possibilities with these things.

good one...


you never told us of is column shifter, but if it is, thats a posibility... did you try to crank in N ?

Heres a 74 R and W Ignition diagram, might help you.

pic 2

74s are different from 73 JUST RIGHT on cranking circuit due the interlock system

Console shift. Yes, tried in N as well. Thanks, have diagram. I have rebuilt a column or two back in the day but just want to repair/replace the sloppy ignition .... any tips/advise here ?

I've seen that issue on more than a few 70's Mopars. Probably is in the switch. Ignition switch can be replaced without pulling the column, but that's about the extent of my experience as I haven't participated in the activity - could try a temporary fix with an external, dash monted switch for now ?

I'd jump from the large batt stud on the starter relay to the nearby "ign" male terminal on the relay & see if it cranks & if no go I'd replace the connector back on & jump the "grn" male terminal (not the connector that's plugged on it) also on the starter relay to ground & turn the ign to start w the key

Check into the bulk head wiring from beyond the ignition switch and connector. If you are spliced into that as you stated go a little further and check the wiring in the loom. My 73 had a wire broken about 6-8 inches up if you moved the wiring up the car started if not a click. Wire all the way out to the bulk head connector. Also check the relay ground those cars are great for losing ground due to rust

sounds like your lacking a ground somewhere, did you reground column straps?battery cables tight? fuseable link good? relay good? start with those