Camry starting problems after attempted theft

[bigpanda16]

Righto, so this is most perplexing for me.
The plastic bit behind my ignition wheel cylinder has been ripped out(obviously the steering shaft cover was broken off as well.
So these punk kids attempted to take my 91 v6 camry for a joyride, now when i try to crank it, it cranks fast(normal speed) at first and then within 5 seconds, slows to a stop then clicking.
I havent been able to drive since this happened.
Is there some sort of security device that does not allow the car to catch and start after the back end of the ignition cylinder has been yanked off?

[toyomoho]

Do not think these early year Camry’s had OEM security systems. When starting the engine two switches in the ignition switch need to be closed. One powers the starter, the other the ignition, fuel circuits, etc. Perhaps the starter circuit switch is working and the other switch has been damaged.

From your description the battery sound like it is being run down during cranking. Perhaps the damaged ignition switch is allowing current to flow even when in the off position and thus running down the battery.

Use a voltmeter to check battery voltage. 12.6V is about 100% fully charged, 12.4V 75%, 12.2V 50%, 12V 25%, 11.9V 0%.

If you have an ammeter, turn off all accessories, etc then disconnect a battery cable. Connect the meter in series between the cable and battery and determine the current draw. Should be around 50ma. Don’t try to start the engine or you will damage the meter.

It might be possible to hot wire the switch. The Black/White wire goes to the starter circuits, the Black/Orange wire to the other circuits needed.

[csaxon]

Were any wires under the dash cut or spliced? Toyomoho is correct. It sounds like your battery is draining. Did they open your hood and try to hot wire it?

[Kep]

The ignition switch also sends current to the ECU. Like csaxon said, look closely at your wiring. Maybe they broke a connection inside of a connector.