MG Car Repair: 77 mg midget ignition woes, roadster factory, moss motors

Question
Hi,
I bought a 77 midget about 6 months ago and it ran fine up until two days ago. Then it stopped. The motor turns over and tries to start but instantly quits. a little background on the ignition: It has been "rewired" with a starter button. Previously all you had to do was turn key switch and then a red light came on on dashboard. Press starter button and then you were off. The other day I got into car, turned key and noticed no red light on dash. Tried to start and it would turn over then quit. The key took quite a lot of pressure to get it to return to the off position.Also ,previously,my radio would only work if the key were in the "on" position but now it will work even without the key in the car.HELP!

Answer
Hi Ed,
I thought I sent this to you but may not have, so here is what you need to do. You need a 12v test light and/or a volt meter and a wiring diagram to trace circuits. If you don't have a diagram go to my web site and down load one and it's index.
http://mg-tri-jag.net/77Midget11x1.jpg
http://mg-tri-jag.net/77Midget21x1.jpg
Don't try to unscramble the whole mess you have. Just pick one circuit and correct that before proceeding to a second circuit.
You should be able to purchase a new ignition switch from one of the MG parts suppliers like, Engel Imports, The Roadster Factory, Moss Motors, Victoria British or British parts North West to name a few. They all have web sites and toll free numbers.
Howard