so i started a 84 ta that was in the garage for 6 years untouched . drove it around the block did this a few times over a few weeks. then smelt burning.. shut it off now nothing since well the red light on the dash comes on. a lot of wires to check car is all original every piece of plastic / gaurds are on .. idea where to start? fyi starter is good. is the coil inside the distributor cap on this year?

 

I'd check the fusible links at the positive post of the starter, probably look at the fuses and ignition switch on the column... Alternator and battery cables would be good places to look for obvious burn damage too. You know, all the places power hangs around the water cooler.

 

As mentioned. Always start with the fuse box with any electrical problems.
Pull and look at each fuse. Do not forget what slot it came from.

Also, If the wrong fuse has been installed, as in "way" to "high" the wires can fry before the fuse blows.

Get a "book" or search on line for a fuse box diagram showing the correct gauge of fuse to be used for each component.

 

still no success in finding problem, order a repair manual. so i can follow each component..

 

Good idea on the Manual.

There fun to read. At least for me they are.
I have a 10 year old Chilton's and it shows it.

There is grease on every page.