<VV> Ignition system

[Andy Clark]

Clark, running 12VDC to the coil for an extended period of time will
overheat it, if it's designed to be used with an external resistor. It's
usually printed on the body of new coils "Use with (or without) External
Resistor". Coils that can be fed the full 12VDC have their own dropping
resistance inside the coil itself. Racing using an unballasted coil @ 12VDC
will not usually be long enough to seriously overheat or damage it.
The lower running voltage has nothing to do with the points. The capacitor
in the distributor absorbs most of the spark energy when the points open,
reducing their tendency to burn.
HTH
Andy Clark
1966 140/4 Monza Sedan
1966 140/4 Yenko Clone
1966 180/4 Cord 8/10 #60
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Clark Hartzel" <chartzel at comcast.net>
To: "Virtual Vairs" <virtualvairs at corvair.org>
Sent: Thursday, August 31, 2006 2:32 PM
Subject: <VV> Ignition system


> OK you electrical gurus, what is the straight scoop on the resistor wire
on
> a Corvair.  I always thought the voltage was dropped to keep the points
from
> burning out.  How come on a Pertronix Ignition they say to run full 12
volts
> to the module but leave the resistor wire on the coil.  I have the
pertronix
> 1 system with Flamethrower 1 coil on my Corvair.  What happens if I run
12V
> to the coil?  It says for racing purposes you can use 12V but street use,
> leave the resistor wire in place.  What difference does it make if I am
> racing or not?  Don't we all want the biggest spark possible?  I am so
> confused....
> Clark Hartzel