I noticed the stock Ford Duraspark II ignition system uses a Resistor wire in the wiring harness for the ballast resistor, whereas most aftermarket DS-II harnesses use a ceramic block with two crimp-on connectors instead.

Which is the better method, and why would one use a resistor wire and the other use a ceramic block?

 

Either one will work. The resistor wire was probably cheaper and easier to install in the harness for the OEM's, though all of them used the ceramic on an odd model here and there(Chrysler more than others).

I have never seen the resistor wire for sale aftermarket, but you can still buy the ceramic resistors at the parts stores.

 

Thanks, Franklin.

Does it really matter where the ballast resistor is mounted? I saw a Chrysler style plastic resistor at NAPA for cheap.

Will it hurt anything to paint it (the block, NOT the terminals)?

Does it matter where it is mounted?

And will it hurt to mount it right next to the coil on the plastic inner fender?

 

Try to mount it in a place where it will get some air flow, because it will build up heat. I don't recommend painting it because the paint can cook.