Help '93 Legacy 5sp won't start after checking OBD1 Codes

[tony2soon]

1993 Legacy AWD. About a week ago I started seeing a CHECK ENGINE LIGHT after starting the car, it went away after 5minutes or so. I decided to try reading the OBD1 codes. With the key in the off position I connected the 2 green self diagnostic connectors under the drivers kick panel and turned the key to the on position (engine off). The cooling fans started turning on then off repeatedly I also heard a few relays cycling. I observed a solid CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, not flashing the OBD1 code as I expected. Well no luck here so I turned the car off disconnected the self diagnostics and tried to start the car, nothing happened, didn't even try to turn over, no clicking, no sounds what so ever.
I did check the starter and it seems fine and it had not given me trouble before. I shorted the solenoid on the starter and the car fired right up though running a little rough. Turned the car off and I cannot start it again with the key, only if I short the starter again. What gives? Did I manage to do damage just by trying to read the OBD1? Anyone had this type of problem before? Please help.

Thanks
Tony

[RahX]

Make sure you didn't pull any connectors apart when you were under the dash. Sounds like you might have disturbed something.

[tony2soon]

I found the problem!! When I removed the kick cover the tiny chip (key) that engages the starter cutout sw (anti-theft option) fell out as I moved the kick cover to the side (starter cut out sw is attached to the kick cover). I saw this but I didn't know what this was. Anyway now that it is back in place I can start up again.