ballast resistor

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Oct 22, 2002 | 12:28 PM

showle

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Jun 2002

Posts: 53

Likes: 0

ballast resistor

what is a ballast resistor?
i have a 1970 f-100 with a 302 and im trying to install a pertronix ignition system it says i need to connect the red wire from the ignitor to a connection before the ballast resistor...what do ya'll reccomend...im using the stock coil for now...thanks guys

Oct 22, 2002 | 12:43 PM

Triple Threat

Junior User

Joined: Oct 2002

Posts: 68

Likes: 0

From: Anderson, CA

ballast resistor

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 22-Oct-02 AT 01:53 PM (EST)]The ballast resistor reduces the amount of voltage to your points style distributor. If you run the full 12 volts to your points, you risk burning them. Which is not good, so I have heard. :] If you are running a pertronix conversion or electronic ignition you do not need the resistor. Anyone else chime in if I am incorrect on any of these points (pun NOT intended).

Oct 22, 2002 | 03:57 PM

Post Fiend

Joined: Feb 2000

Posts: 5,130

Likes: 8

From: Brea CA

ballast resistor

See if this thread helps: https://www.ford-trucks.com/dcforum/DCForumID73/1358.html

Oct 23, 2002 | 07:29 AM

jeremyd72

Senior User

Joined: Apr 2002

Posts: 195

Likes: 0

From: Tennessee

ballast resistor

I know this is alittle off the subject, but does the Duraspark ignition need the ballast resistor? I connected mine to the + side of the coil so I guess I am using it.

Jeremy

Oct 23, 2002 | 09:48 AM

Post Fiend

Joined: Feb 2000

Posts: 5,130

Likes: 8

From: Brea CA

ballast resistor

Jeremy, yes it does unless you're using the module with the red strain relief.

Click on my gallery to see the progression of the Durafart, I'll leave it turned on for a day or so until I get in trouble.

Barry