70 Charger Not Starting Issue

Ascott70 · Mar 13, 2026

Friends. I'm trying to track down an issue with my car that I am sure, has been discussed prior. When starting the car, the engine will begin to run, but when you release the key from start position, the engine shuts down. If i unplug and plug back in the middle bulkhead connector containing the engine wiring, the engine will remain running as normal. I have replaced the female connectors inside of the bulkhead connector for the start and run circuits, but it will still act up. What have you guys seen or done to attack this issue? Thanks for your assistance

MWbirdLOVER70 · Mar 13, 2026

Try a new ballast resistor

Kern Dog · Mar 13, 2026

Forgive the question, but….
You’re new to Mopars, aren’t you ?

Kidding, of course.
This is THE most common issue with these cars. Here is the cause….

The small ceramic block with two sets of wires going to it is the BALLAST RESISTOR. Without going too deep into the “why/what/how”, it is the weak link in our ignition systems and when they fail, the symptoms you’re dealing with show up.
To test, you can bridge a wire between the two terminals and find that the car will start and run. Do NOT run the car long this way. Replace the resistor.

MWbirdLOVER70 · Mar 13, 2026

Kern Dog said:
Forgive the question, but….
You’re new to Mopars, aren’t you ?

View attachment 2007737

Kidding, of course.
This is THE most common issue with these cars. Here is the cause….

View attachment 2007739

The small ceramic block with two sets of wires going to it is the BALLAST RESISTOR. Without going too deep into the “why/what/how”, it is the weak link in our ignition systems and when they fail, the symptoms you’re dealing with show up.
To test, you can bridge a wire between the two terminals and find that the car will start and run. Do NOT run the car long this way. Replace the resistor.

Thanks for adding a pic KD

Pentastar440 · Mar 13, 2026

I just had this issue last week. Engine fired and as soon as I released the key it would die. My ballast resistor is new, but I had the column apart to tighten (and red Loctite) the 4 long screws holding the collar? below the ignition switch to the upper part. I checked the ignition switch plug and although I had zip tied it together, from moving stuff around in the column, one of the pins (male) had pulled free of the female side. I took the plug apart, made sure all of the connections were made and put it back together. Car started instantly when I tried it.
This of course may not be your problem but it's worth checking. I have a friend who carries a new ballast resistor in his glove box.

Dennis H · Mar 13, 2026

Amazing how the Bulkhead Connector is often a factor, but not the culprit.

Ascott70 · Mar 14, 2026

I appreciate the responses. I was going to try a new ballast, since the one thats on it currently is a reproduction piece and may be suspect, in my opinion. I havr the original resistor to the car. It worked begore the resto, so i am going to test it and see it will do the job. Otherwise, I will get a new one and see what happens.

70 Charger Not Starting Issue

Ascott70

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MWbirdLOVER70

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Kern Dog

Life is full of turns. Build your car to handle.

MWbirdLOVER70

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Pentastar440

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Dennis H

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Ascott70

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