Starter keeps spinning with key out
 

I've been having some troubles with my ignition system. It all started when the 50 wire in my ignition switch fried from the switch to the fuse box. Before I replaced the wire, I was getting nothing from the starter. After I put the new wire in, she started, and when I shut her off, the starter kept on continuing to rotate. Replaced the starter with the one from my 84, and same thing. Starter keeps spinning until I take the battery connections off. I replaced the ignition switch, and same thing. I am getting 0 volts on the small/red wire at the starter when ignition off, and 12 with the car running. 12 volts on the thick wire that comes from the alternator running and not running. I even hit the starter after I turned her off while the starter was cranking. All wires seem to be in good order, where else should I look?

The wires inside your starter wiring harness are probably shorted. Easy to make a new wire that runs to the solenoid. There is a little connector by the firewall brake master cylinder. Like a little 2 prong molex. It goes to your ignition switch. Unplug it then test voltage on both halves of plug. If You have12volts on the side closest to fender you most likely have ignition switch problem but not likely in your case. 12 volts on the other plug indicates the main power wire. for your starter is shorted with this ignition wire. Cut that connector attach new wire to it and run it down to your starter in place of The old wire. You can probably pull The old wire out through The heat shrink but not entirely necessary

I didn't read all the way. Might be an issue with that wire. Check wire connections going through alternator i think its all part of that circuit.

This is a common problem on the 968 (as it was explained to me), so I assume it's the same on your car. As was mentioned, most likely the wire from alternator down to the starter. I'm doing a lot of stuff to my car, and that's on the list. Apparently the insulation of the wires gets brittle inside the tubing, and short out against each other causing the starter to go happy.

Ok, I ordered a new harness a few days ago, when that gets in, I'll let you know how it works out. I'll go out and try those tests. But in the mean time, could it be possible that one of the relays are shot? Relay 2 and 14 (relay 15 relay X) I switched out the small one with the 35 on top with a few extras, and nothing, but I don't have the bigger X one. Is it possible that switch could be damaged?

This happened on my 84 VW GTI, it was the starter solenoid. If it sticks "in" the starter stays energized regardless of the ignition switch state. Easy replacement and no issues since.

Al

Starter itself is fine. Have replaced and switched out the starter with my other car, and same symptoms with both starters. Both were fine when I put them on my 84 944