Engine starts, but dies when key returned to "run" position

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RobRettew
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Joined: Sat Jul 16, 2011 11:39 am
What year is your cabby?: 1984
Do you own a Cabriolet?: Yes

Engine starts, but dies when key returned to "run" position

Post by RobRettew »

This is a 1984 Rabbit Convertible that I just acquired having owned numerous Cabriolet's, all with CIS injection. I can get the engine to start, but as soon as I let the ignition key return to the "run" position, the fuel pumps cut off and the engine dies. If I hold the key (or even use jumper from starter up to battery for under-hood starts) in the "start" position, the engine will continue to run just fine (I limit how much I do this to prevent damage to starter). I have tried installing spare "fuel injection power" (#37) and "fuel pump" (#62) relays with no change. I have also tried using a spare ignition switch which did not make a difference. This appears to be an electrical issue but I'm stumped as to what to look for next. The only other thing I've considered trying is replacing the O2 computer under the dash but don't want to "go there" yet unless there doesn't seem to be any other answer to this problem. Suggestions?
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Calimus
Grand High PooBah
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Joined: Mon Sep 02, 2002 11:40 pm
What year is your cabby?: 1989
Do you own a Cabriolet?: Yes
Location: Cartersville, Ga

Re: Engine starts, but dies when key returned to "run" posit

Post by Calimus »

Sounds like the ignition switch itself. It's not uncommon for them to fail. Sometimes they just wear out, but many have found that those that hang a bunch of things from the key ring (extra weight) have a higher frequency of failure. However, sometimes they do just fail. You might want to check into that.
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gull
Posts: 817
Joined: Sun Feb 19, 2006 6:30 pm
What year is your cabby?: 1989
Do you own a Cabriolet?: Yes
Location: Auburn, WA
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Re: Engine starts, but dies when key returned to "run" posit

Post by gull »

Almost certainly the ignition switch. The computer is not your problem.
VW fan who fell to the Honda side of the force
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Briano1234
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Joined: Mon Mar 21, 2005 5:45 am
What year is your cabby?: 1992
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Location: Duluth, Ga
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Re: Engine starts, but dies when key returned to "run" posit

Post by Briano1234 »

Just wondering. When you place the key in the ignition and place it in the "Run" position (NOT START), do the headlights come on?
Briano

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