What is a Ballast Resistor?

[Arberg0]

From: DBrooks  (Original Message) Sent: 10/6/2002 5:27 PM
     I presume it may be something to check out if my engine is not starting up.  How do I troubleshoot it, and where do I find it?  Duane




     The ballast resistor is part of the ignition system (it gives the coil the proper voltage during cranking). On my 73 Brave 440, it is located on a sheatmetal bracket just behind the engine above the tranny-engine junction, the ignition control modual is located there as well. The resistor is about 2"X4" X 1/2" thick, made of white porcelin, with 2 wires going to each end.(Earlyer systems had a 2 wire system about 1"X4").  Myk-dK