Atomic four not starting

[Unregistered]

Hello,

Atomic four not starting and I am wondering if it is spark related. Assuming ignition has 3 positions;off, on, start(farthest point clockwise); engine is getting good spark in the start position, however, when I turn key to on position and try to start by jumping terminals at starter, no spark.

The question is: should there be spark available w/ key at on postion while jumping at starter?

Thank You

[Don Moyer]

There should definitely be ignition available any time that the ignition switch is in the "ON" position.

If you have an electric fuel pump, the "R" terminal on the starter solenoid will supply DC power to the positive terminal of the coil via the fuel pump during the time you're actually cranking the starter. If the circuit between the ignition switch and the coil is broken (as in the case of a blown fuse) the engine will attempt to start while the starter is cranking, but stop as soon as the starter switch is released. I'm not sure if this is your case or not.

Regards,

Don