Cranking with key off

[Skuzzlebutt]

Just bought a 2008 Fox Carbide 150. Has a dead battery so I used the jump pack to start. Runs fine with the pack on but once it's disconnected it will die... sometimes. Other times it stays running after it's jumped and pack is disconnected and to further confuse me, now it will crank once I hook up the jump pack even with the key off. I even unplugged the ignition switch harness and it cranks once the jump pack is turned on. Any advice?

 

[panchothedog]

Buy A new battery for starters.

 

[Skuzzlebutt]

I just brought it home today so I haven't had a chance yet to get a new battery. That doesn't explain why it would crank with the key off.

 

[panchothedog]

I realize that. There must be some wires crossed or connected improperly somewhere. But you made it sound like after the initial start up it was doing OK.
I have seen a fresh battery clean up electrical gremlins. You need one any, so that's why I suggested it.

 

[Denny]

Sounds like a stuck solenoid or relay. Try tapping on the starter with a hammer handle. Then see how it acts.

 

[Functional Artist]

Sounds like a stuck solenoid or relay. Try tapping on the starter with a hammer handle. Then see how it acts.

Yup,
...unless the wiring has been "messed with"
...a stuck solenoid is about the only thing that can cause an engine to "crank" with the key in the "off" position

 

[Skuzzlebutt]

Thanks for the input guys, I'll try that out.

 

[Karttekk]

Agree with Denny. Disconnect the battery wire from one side of the relay & see what that might do.

 

[Skuzzlebutt]

Everything works fine now after a new battery.

 

[Functional Artist]

Pancho...saves the day