12 Volt Coil and Ballast Resistor

[1949 Wraith]

My 1938 Dodge was converted to 12 volt negative ground by the previous owner. The system has a ballast resistor between the ignition and  the positive post on the 12v coil. The resistor has no markings and looks like the oldest item on the car.

Can I replace the 12v coil and ballast resistor with an 12v coil that states no resistor required? If I still should run a ballast resistor what is the resistance I should be looking for in a spare?

Thanks

Edited February 27, 2017 by 1949 Goat

[Plymouthy Adams]

coils with internal resistor often keep voltage higher for a longer period and increases wear on points.....the ballast is most effective and simple system....age has no bearing on the average...just mount so it will not get a rush of cold water when hot during rain, hood raising or the frequent bath...

[Don Coatney]

I have been running a ballast resistor on my car for a lot of years with no problems.

[1949 Wraith]

Thanks guys I will order some spare ballast resistors.

Don what is the additional wire that you have hooked to yours?

[Plymouthy Adams]

start on 12, run on 6 the second wire is the 12 volt supply direct to the coil off the solenoid when in start mode...you should have similar if your vehicle was properly set up on conversion

 

[Don Coatney]

I am using a Ford 4 pole 12 volt solenoid. Post #3 on this solenoid is hot with a full 12 volts when the start button is pushed. I have connected this pole to the coil side of the resistor to by pass it and supply a full 12 volts when starting the engine.

[dale]

Why would anyone convert to 12 volts without going to a negative ground.  Must be a reason.

[1949 Wraith]

8 hours ago, dale said:

Why would anyone convert to 12 volts without going to a negative ground.  Must be a reason.

Sorry, typo error on my part.  Post has been corrected, thanks.

[The Oil Soup]

You can also check the resistor to make sure it is dropping the input to the coil by 3 to 5 volts.