The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop '63 GMC 305 Starts but won't stay on

After a long hiatus because of work and lack of time I got back into it today and tested a few things.

When running your test bartamos with the circuit tester grounded to NEG on the battery and key in "ON" position I touched the + terminal on the ignition coil and got nothing. When having a friend try to "START" the vehicle it lit up.

After this test I left the key in the "ON" position and checked the starter. The light test only lit up when I touched the large 12v wire in the middle.

I also checked the wire that runs into the distributor from the ignition coil. With key in "ON" position I took the distributor cap off and with the circuit tester grounded to the NEG on the battery I connected the light to the center of the distributor and got nothing. Oddly, after removing the wire and when doing a continuity test I found that this wire didn't work. I went across the street to the mechanic and got another wire - tested this for continuity - it worked. Still engine didn't stay running. I attached a picture of the inside of the distributor cap because I think it could be replaced regardless.

I'm thinking I will start tracing the red wire in the ignition harness and make sure all of it's connections are clean and solid. I think I will also do the same for the resistance wire.

As always, any input is appreciated!