Do I need a ballast resistor with points?

So does your application require a ballast resistor? Quite simply, if your distributor has breaker points the answer is yes; if not, the answer is no. See all 7 photos 2 Older points-style ignition system used a single resistor which reduced amperage to the coil resulting in extended life for the coil and points.

Do you need a ballast resistor with an electronic ignition distributor?

The electronic ignition systems don’t use breaker points, so they don’t need a ballast Resistor to control the pickup coil.

How do I know if my coil needs a ballast resistor?

To check if there’s an internal ballast resistor in your coil, there are two things you need to do: 1) remove any cover covering up your coil, and 2) check if your ballast has 3 wires coming out of it. If the ballast doesn’t have the ballast resistor built inside, then there should be three wires coming out of it.

What does an external resistor do?

The external resistor coils were used to boost primary ignition voltage during starting (making starting faster/easier). During starting, the external resistor is bypassed; once the starter is disengaged, power to the coil flows through the external resistor.

Do you need a ballast resistor with a 12v coil?

Using a standard coil on a ballasted ignition system will result in low spark voltages potentially leading to running problems. Using a ballast-type coil on a standard ignition system (without a ballast resistor) will result in excessive current flowing through the ignition system.

Where does a ballast resistor go?

Note: Ballast resistors are usually located bolted to the firewall if your distributor and/or coil is at the rear of the engine. If your distributor is located near the front or side of the engine in the case of an inline-4 cylinder, then it’s probably right near the ignition coil or distributor.

What happens if you dont use ballast resistor?

Ballast Resistor in a LED Circuit It may damage if the supply voltage is more than the rated voltage. To avoid such conditions, a ballast resistor is used to connect in series with the LED. It will reduce the voltage across the LED to its rated value.

What happens when a ballast resistor fails?

If your ballast resistor is bad, your vehicle will not run and you will have to have it towed to the mechanic’s shop.

What is a ballast resistor for a ignition coil?

In a car engine, a ballast resistor is used in the ignition system. And it is known as an ignition ballast resistor. Generally, an ignition ballast resistor is placed between the primary source of the ignition coil and coil stud. It reduces the failure risk of the ignition coil.

What is difference between internal resistance and external resistance?

Answer. internal resistance is the rsisitance offered by the electrolyte to the flow of electrons. external resistance is the resistance offered to the flow of electricity in the external circuit.

How many volts should a ballast resistor have?

You should have 12v on the top of resistor then approx. 6V or 7V going to the coil.

Can a bad distributor cause a car not to start?

A faulty engine distributor won’t spark, which will either prevent the engine from starting or cause it a running engine to fail. In order for the ignition system to work properly it is important to keep the engine distributor operating at maximum efficiency.