do you have a little diagram/write up of how the ignition key is currently connected?  there should be a constant 12v from battery, one to starter solenoid, and then a 12v out to the ignition system.  when the key is off, theres no power to the ignition, when its on the ignition circuit should have 12v, when the key is turned to start it should send 12v to the starter relay/solenoid.