Classic/Antique Car Repair: Wont Start, ford cabriolet, good luck jack

Question
How do you bypass the starter switch and basically "hotwire" a 1931 Model A Ford Cabriolet.  I am waiting on a new starter switch (which I won't have to end of next week) and want to verify that this is the problem.  I can't get the car to start and was wondering if you could help me out.  I think I remember someone telling me I just connect one end of the terminal box to the other

Thank you in advance for you help,
William

Answer
You say you are getting a new starter switch??? I think you mean an ignition switch.  Assuming the engine will turn over, then it might be the ign. switch.  If it is the switch on the starter motor, then get back to me.
Try this:  With the key off, you should have fire at both coil terminals.
With the key on and the points closed, you should have fire at only one terminal.  If you don't have this, then it is either your ign switch, or the little wire under the movable dist. plate.
To by pass the ign switch, you will have to run a wire from one side of the coil to the condense screw, through the hole in the dist.  Hard to get to, but you have to get the insulated plate to be in contact with the coil.  You will have to play with it to figure out whick side of the coil.  
The other thing you could do is drop the instrument panel and short out the ign switch, assuming you can get to the terminals.  
Play with it and get back to me if this is not enough info.
Good luck
jack
ps, get the model A mechanics handbook.  We all have it and use it a lot.  About $35 from MARC or one of the A parts suppliers.
jack