car won't idle unless key is held between on and start

[Jordon]

So I just bought a rough 1973 240z yesterday and I'm trying to start it today, if I turn the key to start it it will turn over but as soon as I let go of the key it dies.

 

The fuel bowls have fuel in them

If I hold the key just between start and on without engaging the starter after I started the car it will idle, as soon as I let the key return to the on position it dies.

 

Any ideas would be great. Thanks guys.

[Milenko2121]

if that happened on my car, first thing i'd check would be my fuse box, and be sure everything is getting the voltage it should while in the on position.

 

then i'd test your fusible links.

 

after that, i'd check your key assembly and test it.

 

here's a diagram

 

Edited July 11, 2013 by Milenko2121

[NewZed]

There are two circuits to the ignition system from from the key.  One bypasses the ballast resistor to balance the current draw from the starter, the other uses the resistor once the engine starts.  You might only have one circuit.

 

Look at EE-26 here and check the wires around your ballast resistor - http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/240z/1973/

[Jordon]

Thanks for your help guys, it was the ballast resistor, completely destroyed wire on one side.