Weird electrical problem

[Terrh]

So I used to have a '91 TSI AWD... I hated it because it was in awful condition, but it sure did put a smile on my face every time the weather was bad... awd powerslides are fun!

Anyways, I sold it last year and figured I would replace it eventually (probably next winter) with a skyline GTR or something considering how cheaply available they are over here (under $10k for one that's mechanically sound)... BUT Yesterday I'm at a friends and he offers to pratically GIVE me his talon, how could I turn that down! And it's in FAR better shape than my old talon was, I'm half in love with it allready and I don't even have it working yet.

He said it didn't run at all... I put a battery in it, turned it over and after 5-6 seconds (it had sat for quite a while) I got it to fire right up, it ran smoothly and perfectly.... for about 3 seconds, then it died. After that point, it wouldn't crank, radio wouldn't work, etc, but the interior light was still lit and the "door" warning light on the instrument panel was still lit. just as if the key was off, no matter where I turned it to.

The last time it was ran (about 3 months ago) he said he turned it off and it wouldn't work anymore after "something started smoking in the interior" but he didn't remember what or where, so I don't see how that helps anyone

I suppose a bad ignition switch is a possibility, Is there anywhere else I should check first before I get into tearing things apart?

 

[RSTurboFWD90]

I would check the relays first. Seems like everything was OK until something disconnected.... like a relay or breaker.

 

[Terrh]

Ignition fuse was blown.

Replaced ignition fuse.

Started car.

Drove around for a bit. Noticed hatch filling up rapidly with smoke, so I opened the hatch and found that the wire for the fuel pump power had burnt at the grommet and was shorting. Pulled all taht crap apart, replaced the grommet and wire and it's fine, doesn't blow the fuse and drives perfectly.

WHAT A DEAL, the car is pretty good mechanically but I think it has some viscious coupling issues - it seems to be locked solidly in 4wd with no slip possible. I'm going to see if the VC recall was ever done on it and see what else I can do.

Thanks for the idea!