What is an ignition ballast resistor?

What is an ignition ballast resistor?

The ballast resistor allows the ignition system to operate at a lower voltage until the engine starts. The ballast resistor then functions to regulate the voltage going to the ignition system to avoid additional wear on the system.

What does a resistor do on a ignition coil?

In simple terms, the ballast resistor in a Mopar limits the amperage, or current flow, through the coil while the engine is running, thereby extending the life of the coil and breaker points of the distributor.

What is the function of ballast resistor?

What is a Ballast Resistor? A ballast resistor is used in a circuit to limit the current and hence prevent it from over current faults. Here, as the current in the circuit varies and increases above a particular threshold value, the resistance also starts to increase.

How do you know if a ballast resistor is bad?

Measure the voltage (or check with a test light) the voltage between the single wire and ground. If there is power there, the ballast resistor is likely bad. Reconnect the wires and measure the voltage at the positive side of the coil. If you see 8-13 volts, you may have a bad coil.

What causes a ballast resistor to fail?

The resistance through the ballast resistor varies with current flow which varies with engine rpm. This naturally causes the resistor to expand and contract from heat. That’s why they eventually fail.

How do you install a ballast resistor?

Connecting a ballast resistor is a fairly straightforward project, but you will want to pay attention to the wiring.

1. Step 1: Determine if Ballast Resistor Is Needed.
2. Step 2: Locate Ballast Resistor along Firewall.
3. Step 3: Drill Holes for Securing Resistor.
4. Step 4: Install Ballast Resistor.
5. Step 5: Connect Wires to Positive.

How do you tell if an ignition coil has an internal resistor?

To test your ballast resistor you need an ohm meter or multimeter set to ohms. Remove the connectors from both sides of the resistor. The ohms should read between 1.8 and 5 ohms. You should be getting 9 volts to the positive side of the coil.

Can a bad ballast resistor cause no spark?

Yes, a blown ballast can bugger up the spark, what kind of distributor are you using.

How do I know if my ballast resistor is bad?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ballast Resistor

1. Vehicle starts, then immediately dies. The most obvious symptoms will be the vehicle starts, but then immediately dies as soon as you release the key.
2. Not starting at all.
3. Don’t jump the resistor.
4. Let the vehicle be.

What is the purpose of an ignition ballast resistor?

Definition WordNet Search defines a ballast resistor, most commonly found in an automobile ignition system, as a device “inserted into a circuit to compensate for changes, [such] as those arising from temperature fluctuations.”. A ballast resistor helps regulate voltage flowing in an electrical system to avoid overloads or battery drainage.

How do you test a ballast resistor?

Mopar Ballast Resistor Test. Using an electrical multi-meter, check the resistance between the noted terminals of the ballast resistors. Do this with all of the wires to the ballast resistor disconnected. Any significant deviation from these numbers would indicate that the ballast resistor is defective.

How do you wire a ballast resistor?

Route one end of the wire from the engine compartment into the passenger compartment. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the end of the wire and crimp on a ring terminal. Connect it to the ignition terminal of the ignition switch. Route the other end of the wire to one terminal of the ballast resistor.

What does a ballast resistor do?

“Ballast” is something that gives stability and hence a resistor used for over current or over voltage protection in circuit that in turn gives stability to the circuit is referred to as ballast resistor. These ballast resistors have major applications in areas of automotive and in lamp circuits.