Daniel,
You may have an issue with the starter interlock. The override switch is mounted in the front trunk, and the control box is under the dash. Someone may have tried to by-pass (or removed) the interlock feature, and didn't do a good job of splicing the wires.
John
PANTERA INTERNATIONAL
A DE TOMASO CAR CLUB
Presents the De Tomaso Forums
The On-Line Meeting Place for De Tomaso Owners and Enthusiasts From Around the World
Clicking on the banner will take you to the sponsor's website.