It might be.....
sometimes there is a resistor in the area of the coil which allows 12
volts to the coil when starting (key fully turned) but then cuts the coil
input voltage down to 8 volts or so for normal driving - this cuts down
the normal arcing across the points inside the distributor and helps the
condenser.
The outside of this 'ballast resistor' is normally bolted to the
distributor or the bulkhead - whatever earth is convenient. If this
resistor fails it effectively shorts out the whole ignition circuit and
you get what you describe - including an 'interested' sound when you allow
the key back from start to run. Assuming it's not electronic ignition or
anything fancy, disconnect the low tension input wire to the coil, and run
a wire direct from the battery positive post to that coil terminal, then
try to start it as normal.
If it starts and runs it's that !"£$%^& resistor - just find it and
replace it. You should only do this as a test - don't drive the car that
way, make sure all electrical connections are isolated, use safety gear,
etc, etc.
If this doesn't work get someone who knows to give it a kick, but plan on
a new condenser as well.
Gordon
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