Ballast resistor

[a1city]

Hi all, on my 2.5 3b PF coupe we are suspicious of the magneti marrelli ballast resistor. Problems starting once the engine is warm in the workshop? And looking for other peoples experience re the ballast resistor and to find possible alternatives and are they essential?.? Thanks Dave

[Mikenoangelo]

The ballast resister is used with a 9v coil and is in the circuit when the engine is running but by passed  when the starter is used, applying the full 12v and temporarily boosting the coil output. If you change to a 12v coil you could disconnect the resister but perhaps just getting a new resister might be the answer.

Mike

[lancialulu]

I am not sure the Italians bypassed the ballast on start up. That was a Ford trick to start their over square engines in cold weather.... Could be wrong though.

[chriswgawne]

I am not aware that Lancia ever bypassed the ballast resistor on startup.
Chris