ballast resistor explanation?

[fsjcowboy]

I am inquiring about a 1987 Four Winns with 4.3L OMC Cobra, carburated, distributor with points. After checking the ballast resistor for resistance and finding that it is out of specs, what type of 20 Ga wire can be used for replacement? Can you make a short (dumb-it-down) explanation for the reason for this wire design from the alt to the coil? I just can't make sense of it. Thanks

 

[dubs283]

Re: ballast resistor explanation?

the coil, if provided 12 or more volts to the positive side, will destroy the coil.

since the alternator, while the engine is running, provides 13-14 volts to the battery, it would fry the coil.

the coil gets the positive voltage from the purple lead from the alt connection, hence the resistor wire.

it may be possible to still get this wire from an aftermarket source, or Volvo, maybe even Bombardier (BRP)

 

[fsjcowboy]

Re: ballast resistor explanation?

Thanks for the understandable explanation. I wish everyone could talk that plainly and clearly.