starter button status
 

'49 Ford Flathead V8 - just noticed that starter button activates starter when ignition is "off" or in "accessory position" as well as "on" position. Looking at wiring diagram, this appears to be the case. I am reading the diagram correctly? This starter activation action seems to be unusual and perhaps dangerous. Any insights?

thx

af

Re: starter button status
 

af,

That is the way it is designed to work.

Ken

Re: starter button status
 

Don't know about 49s but all the earlier cars are like that. Useful if you want to turn the motor over without it running.

Re: starter button status
 

My 50 was that way too, I changed the solenoid to a isolated type. It needs both battery positive and negative applied to operate. Mine is 12v negative ground so the starter button is ground and the positive goes to the ignition switch. It makes the car safer and prevents a forgetful old guy from trying to start the car without turning the ignition on.

Re: starter button status
 

Leave it alone unless you don't work on your own cars; it's real advantage during tuneups, etc.