KA24de starts without key?

[The Saint]

I just finished a stock swap of a bad KA24de.
When I plugged in the battery, it started with the key not in the ignition.
all the threads are about heard starting problems.
It turns over fine.
All ideas are welcome.
Thanks.

[The Saint]

I don't think you understand me right.
the key is sitting in the seat.
Negative terminal-connected.
Connect the positive and the starter rotates the engine.
WTF?

[Primo's Silvia]

Sounds like the signal wire to the starter is being powered by the 12v terminal when connected instead of the ignition, my guess would b to follow the wire fromt the starter see wer tht goes , and if not check your ignition system?

[The Saint]

When I disconnected the signal wire, then reconnected the battery- no rotation.
reconnected it, then the battery-rotation.
Your saying that what the signal wire is connected to is bad?

[Primo's Silvia]

Okay so this means the "signal wire" is getting power when it should b. so its making contact somewer with a 12v source follow tht wire to the fuse box , and follow it thier? Maybe it got crushed or it got connected wrong when u re intalled the motor?

[The Saint]

Bingo! Bad wire harness to the starter.
Thank you.
Good thing I have a spare 240sx lying around.

[Primo's Silvia]

No problem bro thts good u figured it out!