BJ8 - Leave ignition key on?

[memphis]

Hello,

I have a '65 BJ8 and would like to listen to the radio w/o having the engine running. Is it "ok" to turn the key to the first position w/o starting the car and leave it in this position to listen to the radio?

When I turn it to this first position, I can hear the fuel pump run for a few seconds, then it stops...

Is this ok, or will I cause any issues?

Thank you!
Bob

 

[PAUL161]

Hello,

I have a '65 BJ8 and would like to listen to the radio w/o having the engine running. Is it "ok" to turn the key to the first position w/o starting the car and leave it in this position to listen to the radio?

When I turn it to this first position, I can hear the fuel pump run for a few seconds, then it stops...

Is this ok, or will I cause any issues?

Thank you!
Bob

Evidently there's no accessory circuit on your ignition switch and if you can hear the pump kick in, then you should have juice to the points, which in turn, if the engine isn't running, will burn them up if their closed. Wire your radio to an isolated fused circuit. You'll just have to remember to turn it off when done. PJ

 

[memphis]

Thank you!
Bob

 

[GregW]

Hi Bob,
Originally the radios were connected to a brown wire which is "always hot".

 

[memphis]

Thanks Greg,
Bob

 

[shorn]

If you have a pertronix ignition, you can do damage to them by having the ignition switch on but the car not running.