Mk1 starting issues.

[Dubstein]

Currently away from the car right now but thought it might be worth while asking now about my problem with my newly aquirred Mk1.

Bought the car 2 weeks ago before i left for holiday but couldnt seem to get her to turn over(will not crank either) Im suspecting the problem to lie within the ignition side of the wiring but who knows. Firstly id like to say that i can short out the starter motor and get it running (driveable) and suprisingly it runs awesome after i got the mixture and timing correct.

The dash lights and all that jazz comes on when the key is switched to on. And slightly dim when trying to crank. Have check and replaced battery/fuses and voltages on wires but nothing. Would it be possible for the key to be a suspect? I remember my 4dr key barrel stopped working at one point but light didnt work on that car either.

Thanks for the help and sorry for the long post

Heres a picture of the new beast

anyone know why the pictures are small and terrible quality? I use to be able to post them right D: