Ignition Coil Resistance Wire

[Jonathan Pounsett]

Why is the wire between the coil and the fuse box a translucent resistance wire? What does it do that makes it different to any other wire?

[cam.in.head]

the coil on a points type ignition system only runs at around 6-9v rather than 12v.the resistance wire keeps the coil voltage correct.once you operate the starter this voltage would fall lower but a bypass wire on the stater solenoid brings it up to full voltage ( which during cranking could be 10-11v) and this also give a temporary stronger spark to aid starting.

this system only applies to a conventional points type distributor.if you ever fit an electronic ignition distributor from a gte for example then you need to run a constant 12v non resistive wire from the ignition switch.

[Jonathan Pounsett]

4 hours ago, cam.in.head said:

the coil on a points type ignition system only runs at around 6-9v rather than 12v.the resistance wire keeps the coil voltage correct.once you operate the starter this voltage would fall lower but a bypass wire on the stater solenoid brings it up to full voltage ( which during cranking could be 10-11v) and this also give a temporary stronger spark to aid starting.

this system only applies to a conventional points type distributor.if you ever fit an electronic ignition distributor from a gte for example then you need to run a constant 12v non resistive wire from the ignition switch.

Thanks @cam.in.headfor a very informative and interesting reply. I knew someone in the club would know the answer.

[cam.in.head]

youre welcome.