i have an electrical gremlin somewhere.

for a 1952 3/4 ton:

prior to the gremlin showing up, the brake lights would function regardless of what position the ignition switch was in.

after some sitting, i get no power anywhere. starter won't go, headlights don't work, nothing. the battery is brand new btw.

thinking that the old ignition switch could be accidentaly left in the on position, and the key removed (it can, apparently the tumblers are useless) i tried a known good battery from another car. same story.

questions:

1) from looking at the wiring diagram, it seems that the starter should spin even if the key is in the off position. true?

2) what wires do i jumper together on the ignition switch to eliminate the switch as the culprit?

3) where are the fuses supposed to be? (wiring is pretty messy, previoius owner redid most of it and liked red)

this problem was just discovered last night, and i didn't have enough time to try any diagnosis. if anyone has some odd things to look at i'd appreciate it.

the thing that really puzzles me is the brake lights. they should work no matter what.

-bryan