383 with MSD is a ballast resistor required?

[Roberttsf]

Guys,

I have a 383 with an MSD ignition controller, distributor, and coil installed. I am trying to make sense of the mess someone left me with. The guy that had it before me didn't have a ballast resistor wired in. The car doesn't run yet so normal tests (starting the engine and checking voltage) wont work. Do I need to install a resistor? I don't want to start the car and burn something up. Any ideas?

 

[RustyRatRod]

NO, I don't think one is required. Do you not have deestrukshuns with your MSD? I'm sure you can find them online. It should tell you for sure there.

 

[IQ52]

Rob is correct. A ballist resistor is NOT required. Go online and copy the instructions.

 

[68sportsatelliteragtop]

The ballast resistor is bypassed w/ an MSD 6 control box. I took apart a ballast resistor and removed the resistor piece, then soldered in a piece of 6ga. copper in its place. Used a candle to drip wax over the cavity on the back side. Looks stock and uses the stock wiring.

 

[Roberttsf]

NO, I don't think one is required. Do you not have deestrukshuns with your MSD? I'm sure you can find them online. It should tell you for sure there.

I have the instructions but they show two ways to wire in or by-pass a ballast resistor and it says: "if required." The guys that had it before me said there might be an issue with the current wiring setup. THey said once turned on the engine would keep running even if you turned off the key. That was a while before I bought the car and I'm not sure if they resolved the issue before I got the car. Do you guys think the fact I don't have a ballast resistor wired in has anything to do with this?

Thanks for the help fellas,


Rob

 

[Cranky]

Sounds like the ignition is wired wrong (hot all the time) if it's staying running once you turn off the key. The resister is supposed to be bypass while in the start mode and then it allows current flow at a reduced rate. You don't want full current flow to the ignition system (with a stock system) once the engine starts and the alternator starts charging at 14+ volts.

 

[terzmo]

that's one of the reasons for msd..eliminate ballast resistor...check and make sure the system is grounded well

 

[Roberttsf]

Couldn't find an engine ground strap. I need to look a bit more. I'm a total electrical novice. Can you explain why a ground would keep the engine running if the key was turned off? Thanks man,

Rob

- - - Updated - - -

I have a wiring diagram that shows both a wired in resistor, and one that shows the ballast resistor installed but bypassed. Which do you think I should use? thanks again for the reply and the help.

Rob