[SwanMan]

my 1986 celica GTS starts but will not run...gives no try at any kind of idle...what could the problem be and how can I trouble shoot it?

 

[2000GTS]

what do you mean starts but will not run?? it will start but u cant drive it or it tries to start but it wont turn over?

 

[SwanMan]

the engine gets going but as soon as I stop turning the key it dies

 

[es250nut]

Bad ignition switch? Maybe your ignition switch is loosing contact in the "RUN" position. Essentially when you turn the key first you go to the "ACC" in which the accesories in your car get current, next step is "RUN" which adds the engine control circuits & ignition to the current. Last step is "Start" where the the accessories circuit is cut off and the starter solinoid is activated.

If this is the case your indicator lights (check engine, brake, ABS, etc..) probably won't come on until you turn the key to "START". Whereas if it is working properly they will come on when you get to the "RUN" position.

If it's not your ignition switch, it might also be a relay related to the ignition circuit.

 

[2000GTS]

The ignition switch sounds like it should solve the problem but if it was a relay would it even try to turn over?

 

[SwanMan]

could it be the spark plugs or distributor cap then?