continuous cranking

[Dukaine]

OK this is actually my 97 540i not my 318. I just got it and the car sat a long time. I got it popping but when I crank it over and put the key in on position it continuously cranks until I put in off position. If I switch it in on before cranking its fine it'd only after I start cranking it and let fall into on position it will continuous crank. My guess ignition switch but any other ideas I can check so I can get it fixed thanks

[camcraft]

I vote that its a ig switch as well the contact points for the ignition are in the switch and have likely failed, in some cases the ecu will manage the crank as well but its more of a booster than a control, it will finish a crank that you terminate by not holding the key in place for the entire start cycle.

[xxxJohnBoyxxx]

+1 ignition switch or bad unloader relay. I would do ignition first since you can check it out by removing the lower column panel. When checking ignition switch from backside wiring don't forget yo put the key in the ignition switch so EWS can read key roll.

John S