My car won't start with the backup light fixtures unplugged

[MaximRecoil]

(1969, 318, automatic)

I removed the fixtures from the rear valance because we were doing work on the chassis back there, and later when I tried to start it, it was completely dead when I turned the key. It would still start by jumping the solenoid though. I plugged the backup light fixtures back in and it started fine with the key. Is that normal?

[nascarxx29]

Thats odd maybe your trans switch or back up light harness wiring should be looked over Non staring by the key except for drive or neutral is the function of the starter relay check it out to

[GreenMachine]

Probably tied into your neutral safety switch at the trans, it should get its ground from the transmission though (I think).

[nascarxx29]

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,60848.msg679043/topicseen.html#msg679043

[MaximRecoil]

The neutral safety switch on this car has been bypassed by a previous owner. Would that explain it?