Classic/Antique Car Repair: ignition system, spark plug wires, line resistor

Question
hey?i recently bought a 1959 edsel, i have replaced the solenoid, the coil,spark plug wires,coil resistor,and have inspected the cap and rotor. i bought a ignition switch from autozone cause the one it had did not work. i have been able to get the 312 engine to turn over it turns on but wont stay on. to keep it running id have to hold the key to that position after the on position,(talking about turn the key once, then once more to activate the starter.)i cant figure out the deal.hope you can help me out.
                                             mike

Answer
You appear to have an open in the ignition wire coming from the ignition switch to the coil. There are two ignition turn on circuits. One runs from the S terminal on the starter solenoid to the coil and provides electricity to the coil when the key is in the start position. Then a second circuit runs from the ignition switch through an in line resistor to the coil. You need to check the voltage at the coil in each position with a voltmeter.
Brad