My series 2 vdp developed a starting issue traced to a failed ballast resistor. I bypassed it temporarily to run the car and it seems fine but im told that this will eventually burn the points out? I have a new resistor ordered.

Just wondering is it the case that without the resistor the points will fry? Or worse?
Cheers folks JJD.

 

Fry the coil would be more likely, as the ballast reduces voltage to the coil

With or without a ballast the points can fry if the key is left 'on' with the points closed

Cheers
DD

 

Fried points, oh yeah. guess how I know??? If one was lucky and there was any battery left, the metal point file would get them clean enough to run, sorta. At least a limp home. and, as auto transmissions were very rare, a bump start would do!!.


The early ignition switches had no accessory position. On/off was it!! so, if one wanted to park with a very friendly gal in a romantic spot at night and have music
ingenuity needed. Cars had amp meters. With key to on, nudge the car and engine til the meter was centered. Points thusly open. Enjoy but not too long. Those old superheterodyne radios ate juice really fast!!!


Carl