Q: Car won't start with the key.

Went to start my mk triton diesel. Wouldnt start. No dash lights, indicators or headlights. Blown main + terminal fuse and maybe a few others. Replaced fuse/s. Mate ran a wire from the - terminal into one of the holes in the fuse box where a relay might go. This made the dash lights come on and can now clutch start but cant start with the key. Headlights are not working properly (i.e. very low/park lights). When i put the key on and short out the starter motor with a screwdriver the headlights come on bright but the car doesnt start. I had a mechanic friend cone over and check some fuses, wires, battery, etc with a multimeter but he couldnt figure out what it was. Said something about it might be something between the key and the fuse box.

My car has 250000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.