Help! I fried my starter....nOOb....

Howdy folks.

I attempted to start my 74 Dart (318 ) last week. I have had a hard-starting problem with it in the past. So I replaced the starter with a reman unit. The car has been sitting for months at my sister-in-laws house.

I had a revelation whilst jumping it from my 88 NY'er.... maybe the ignition is shot. I realized that the car was just only catching at the very middle of the key travel; only. Then she fired up and ran. Unfortunately the starter kept about its business as well. I took the key out of the ignition and both starter and motor kept running. For about 15 seconds. Then the car quit anda bit of smoke from I assume the starter.

So my question is: did I eff a lot of stuff up here or can I replace the starter again and get a new ignition? And I am comfortable with the starter but not the ignition.

Would really like to be daily driving the Dart. I even bought a new Craftsman mechanics tool set as my previous meager tool set was stolen out of the car. I have the most basic of knowledge but would like to think I can stay on top of a 40-year-old Dodge. :)

You guys gave me great advice on tuning the carb to net better gas mileage; which is why I parked it to begin with. Armed with some tools now and your support I think I can do this.

What do you think?

Many thanks in advance. Please; I dont wanna drive my K-car any more!!!!



Matt