So I have a 93 FD RX7 which I rebuilt over the fall and winter. I'm still fixing smaller things and slowly driving it around more. Recently, I've noticed something pretty concerning and was wondering if anyone had troubleshooting tips. Car has a Power FC (on the base map currently), upgraded solenoids, lightened flywheel, aftermarket clutch, 99 spec turbos, Koyo radiator, SBG dual oil coolers, after market downpipe/exchaust.

Sometimes when I start the car the "Ignition Switch" (66-151A-FD01) smokes some when starting. The smoke seems to go away once the car is started and the ky returns to the "on" position. Obviously, this seems like a bad sign in and of itself, but additionally sometimes if the car stalls I won't be able to start it again without a number of attempts (up to 10?). The key seems to have some light play (5 or 10 degrees) between the "on" and "start" positions.

Recently, when trying to track down the smoking I put the key in the "Column Lock Assembly" (76-290B-FD01) and turned it to the "on" position. I had the steering column cover off and I depressed the clutch by hand - not only did the ignition smoke but the car started. I was not actively turning the key to the "start" position. Can a bad ignition switch cause this type of behavior? or is this more indicative of a bad "Column Lock Assembly"?

If anyone has any tips on how to troubleshoot this, I'd be appreciative! I've looked through the FSM but it doesn't seem to really have a good section on the interior components of the ignition system. I have a multimeter and would be happy to do some probing if I knew what to probe. Thanks in advance!

 

I've never had any problems with my switch, but guessing you need another one. The second link might help you find a helpful wiring diagram. And of course there's a chance some previous owner routed a turbo timer or something else badly.
https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generati...t-fire-900534/
https://www.rx7club.com/3rd-generati...iagram-798068/