[SEL] V12 GMC electrical question

[bill at antique-engines.com]

Ballast resister, usually ceramic, although some have used a resistance wire.
Function is to reduce current flowing through coil during normal
operations. The coil won't handle the full 12v full-time.
Yes, they can get VERY hot, thus the ceramic, however, I wonder about one
resister taking care of two coils. Sounds like a bit much load.
Mopar used ceramic resisters, as did certain other companies.
My Javelin had a grp 19 Mallary coil and it required such a ballast
resister and came as part of the kit. Otherwise, the stock ignition used a
resistance wire made into the wiring harness.
Personally, I'd have one resister per coil - they will run way too hot to
touch, but sounds like a lot of current going through that one with two
coils.

Bill

> hello all,,,  we're almost done with the V12 Jimmy,,, trying to get it
> finished for a show this weekend,,, we've fired it on prime, but only
> received the carbs today, so thats on tomorrows list,,, my question
> concerns
> the old style ceramic resistor/resistors for the coils,, it has 2
> distributors and 2 coils,, when we got it, there was only one resistor
> wired
> for both coils,,, i;m not sure what the resistor does, or if one or two
> are
> required,,, when the ignition is on, the element in the one resistor
> becomes
> very hot, hot enough to turn it a dull red, does this sound like its too
> hot
> ? is the correct wiring for the resistor/resistors  between the  +
> terminal
> on the coil and battery voltage ? what is the function of the resistor ?
> any help will be appreciated,,
> bill boyce
> lost prairie, arkansas
>
>
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