ok my car starts up and runs for a split second then dies. what do you think it could be. i dont wanna bring it to a shop i always get ripped off. who can i call with a portable diagnostic thing to check it out.

 

This problem might require someone with a portable diagnostic BRAIN. LOL
Try to let the key out of the crank position very slowly to see if the engine keeps running.
Or you could put a test light to the Black/yellow stripe wire at the dist. to see if the power drops away from the dist when you let off the key.

Your description of the problem sounds like the electrical part of the ignition switch is bad. But I think the problem needs to be proven before replacing parts.
A test light is a cheap diagnostic tool that can be used in a lot of troubleshooting.