[Roadtrip]

Sniady -
What you have there is a jury-rigged modification that was fairly common years ago on the SPICA Alfa's. Basically it was a toggle switch that cutout current to the Cold Start Solenoid. The problem was starts from a hot engine where the CSS would stick and flood the engine. I think a lot of this was fear & superstition. All that crap ought to come out of the car and it be restored to original setup, but better still to Papajam's suggestion which is VERY simple to wire. The ignition key switch contacts are relatively fragile and with the stock system, when you crank the starter motor you are providing current to TWO high current draw items. If the driver cranks the engine for a long time, those small contacts in the ignition key switch can overheat and burn out . . . about a $100 item and a real PIA to R&R.

With Papajam's setup, the ignition key switch only has to provide a small current to two relays. The relays then act as heavy duty switches which can easily handle the current to the starter solenoid and CSS.

When I get time I'm going to do it to my car. Reason? To prolong the life of that expensive ignition key switch. I'm going to do the same with the fuel supply pump and use a much heavier wire to ensure full voltage to the supply pump. Also, since mine is a '74 it doesn't have an inertia switch. I'm going to install one as a safety measure.