The only 2 switches that could pull in the release fire gods relay are the release fires gods target switch and the normally open switch on the relay used in the hold circuit. Check for shorted connections and try isolating the switches with paper strips if needed.

To help determine when the fire gods release relay pulls in, the add a 2nd player sequence must be slowed down. To do this follow these steps.
With balls in both saucer holes, reset machine to 1st ball, remove ball from shooter lane.
Lift and support playfield.
Check if there’s a score motor service switch to turn off, or the motor will have a female connector that can be slipped off.
Press replay button.
Does the fire gods release relay pull in immediately?
Slowly manually turn the score motor cams until the fire gods release relay pulls in. Observe what cam it is and inspect that cam switch stack for blade or wire shorts.
Reconnect female connector to motor.

Thank you for the info.
Originally I thought that the fire gods target relay was a under playfield relay. after checking the schematic jones plug charts I see that the 53-5 white-yellow target gods target relay power wire is connected to the 16 pin playfield jones plug.
Inspect male and female parts of the jones plug for shorts to this white-yellow wire.

It’s actually the fire gods target relay.
To help localize the short, unsolder the white-yellow wire from from the female jones plug as mentioned above.
Set up problem scenario and retest.

Yes you are correct. If the relay still pulls in with the wire unsoldered, then the cabinet wire to the relay needs to be checked. If the relay stops pulling in, then the playfield wire to target switch needs to be checked.

Unscrew the fire gods target relay from the wood and inspect and straighten the wires while checking for shorts. If nothing looks obvious unsolder the white-yellow wire from the switch connection and use a alligator jumper to connect to the 2 unsoldered connections.
Set up problem scenario and retest.

Yes resolder onto the female jones plug and the relay switch connection. There shouldn’t be any chance of a short on the wire now that it’s removed from the harness.

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