Hey gang,

I have an 89 F150 5.0l that I am changing back to duraspark 2.

I have the module and match distributor no problem.

The schematics I found here show a ballast resistor from the ignition.

I know the old fords had them but does my 89 and if not where do i splice one in so I don't burn the coil.

Thanks as always guys.

 

I am thinking not. I believe someone said most of the trucks did have the resistor wire, even though they were fuel injected, because early on only the 5.0 was injected, and the 351w and the 460's were not. I am not sure though, but by 89 wasn't everything fuel injected? If so, there would be no need to include the resistance wire.

So after all that, in a nutshell I don't know. Look for a red/green wire that is not used. If you find you need resistor, just go to the store and get a big white resistor to mount on the firewall, they are usually for the older chrysler products.

If you just want to hook it up and try it, get it running and measure the voltage on the coil +. If it's around 9v you are good. If it's closer to 12v, you are going to need a resistor.

Another thing you need to do is get a resistance bypass wire. If you found the a factory wire you should be good, since it's built in. But if you use the white resistor, I would go get a older style solenoid with the two small terminals. Hook the original small wire back up to the "s" terminal, and run a new wire from the "i" terminal to the coil +. This will send a full 12v to the coil during cranking only, and it will start better in cold weather.

 

thanks i did not think the resistor came on the fi 89 5.0.

I was going to use the can style starting relay for sure.

I will pick up a resistor and solder in.

Thanks for the reply