Why ballast resistor

But ads are also how we keep the garage doors open and the lights on here at Autoblog - and keep our stories free for you and for everyone. And free is good, right? If you'd be so kind as to allow our site, we promise to keep bringing you great content. Thanks for that. And thanks for reading Autoblog. 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.

Not starting at all If the ballast resistor is not working properly, the vehicle will not start. Ownership electrical system resistor. View More. Thank You Thanks for subscribing. Check your in-box to get started. Sign Up More Info. We notice you're using an ad blocker. Please consider allowing Autoblog. Allow Us! Here's how to disable adblocking on our site.

Click on the icon for your Adblocker in your browser. Strip the end of the positive wire from the ignition, and connect it to the positive end of the resistor. From the other terminal on the resistor a wire goes to the positive on the coil. Make sure to attach securely to the connecting terminal, by wrapping the wire around the post and tightening with a screwdriver. What is the disadvantage of using a resistor ballast for a fluorescent lamp? Ballast Resistor in Fluorescent Lamps However, there is downside to this type of lighting system.

It gets heated very fast when directly connected to the voltage source. This happens due to the uncontrollable current draw by the lamp, as soon as it is switched on.

What are the different types of ignition systems? There are three basic types of automotive ignition systems: distributor-based, distributor-less, and coil-on-plug COP. Early ignition systems used fully mechanical distributors to deliver the spark at the right time. Next came more reliable distributors equipped with solid-state switches and ignition control modules. How do you wire an ignition with a ballast resistor?

Connect a wire from the coil positive terminal to one side of the ballast resistor. Connect 12 volts to the other terminal of the resistor. Install the high voltage coil wire. Where is the ballast resistor located? 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 is the difference between a ballast and non ballast coil? The top photo is a non-ballast coil. The difference is the ballast is built into the wire to ensure the voltage is reduced from 12 volts by the time it reaches the coil. The second wire comes directly from the starter and jumps the ballast resistor. This wire is only powered when the starter is being run.

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. And while ignition coil life may be compromised without a resistor , the additional secondary voltage at the spark plug is increased which generally improves power.

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. If your ballast resistor is bad , your vehicle will not run and you will have to have it towed to the mechanic's shop. The biggest sign your ballast resistor is bad is your vehicle will start, but immediately stop as soon as you let go of the key. First, the ballast resistor is the long, white ceramic thing attached to the left side of the coil assembly.

Basic function : the ballast resistor is a resistor contained in the primary ignition circuit wiring that lowers voltage after the engine is started to reduce wear on ignition components. How do you test a coil? Connect your multimeter to the positive terminal or pin of your coil, and to the high output terminal that goes to the spark plug. Most ignition coils should have a secondary resistance falling somewhere between 6, to 10, ohms;however, refer to manufacturer specifications for the correct range.

Does a ballast reduce voltage? During lamp starting, the ballast must briefly supply high voltage to establish an arc between the two lamp electrodes. Once the arc is established, the ballast quickly reduces the voltage and regulates the electric current to produce a steady light output. How do you check a ballast? Turn off the fluorescent fixture's circuit breaker inside the breaker panel. Remove the fluorescent bulbs from the fixture. Remove the ballast cover from the fixture, if the ballast is not already exposed.