327 vs 409 ballast resistor

[pg409]

Our 63 SS was originally a 327/250hp and now is powered
by a QG 340hp 409.
As I understand it the 327 wiring had resistance to the coil
in the wiring harness itself. 409 cars had a separate ballast
resistor.
Should I be using an actual resistor? Our wiring harness
is original.

THANKS

Keith

[SS425HP]

You can't use both. It has to one or the other. Check the voltage at the coil with the ignition switch in the on position. If less than battery voltage, the wire is a resistor wire, and you CAN'T use a ballast resistor. If you have battery voltage, then you NEED a firewall ballast resistor.

Fred

[pg409]

Thanks Fred

I will be checking the voltage asap.

Keith

[Mr Goodwrench]

Fred you will have to check that voltage at the coil with the engine running not just with the key on, otherwise it will read the same as batt voltage, or close to it. Remember resistors limit current not voltage, so without flow voltage will stack up untill batt voltage is reached.