68raggtop

While replacing the engine harness on my 68 BB I ran across a ballast resistor that was wired in between the starter solenoid and the coil. It was just hanging behind the head, not mounted to anything. I don't see any mention of a ballast resistor in the AIM or anywhere else for a 68. Is it supposed to be there, and if so, where was it mounted?
Thanks for any help.
Dave :smash:

R1234

No ballast resistor on my small block, I also did not see anything in the AIM.

LemansBlue68

The original engine harness has a resistor wire in it that serves as a ballast resistor. Bubba probably fried that one and used a regular wire along with a ballast resistor. At least he knew enough to install a ballast resistor at all. Your replacement harness should have the resistor wire as part of it already.
The resistance between the firewall connector and where the harness connects to the coil should be about 1-1.5 Ohms.

Garys '68

I think the 68 was supposed to have a ballast "wire". These are usually tinned and easy to ID. It was obvious on mine that there was some rewiring done. A ballast resistor was added. You do need a ballast resistor or wire for the points ignition.
BTW, there should also be a bypass wire to the starter sloenoid that provides a full 12V (bypasses the resistor) when cranking. This may be connected to the output of your resistor or directly to the coil.
Gary

68raggtop

That makes sense now. Bubba did work on that harness. The wire from the solenoid to the coil changed wire color/size 3 times before the resistor and a 4th from it to the coil. I feel much better now with the new harness! :thumbs:
Thanks again,
Dave

68raggtop

:thumbs: Thanks Gary, That is also on the new harness. :cheers:

Garys '68

Sure, that's how EVERYONE does it!
BTW, confirm there is a resistor wire in the harness. Later years used the external resistor I think. And it's not unusual to get a generic parts that work on "most" years.
Gary