Ballast resistor

[melbxs]

Best explanation I've heard Stout. Nice one.

[Stout]

Geoff - you're sort of right, but also sort of have it backwards...

Coils work on current, not voltage (but of course, current results from whatever voltage exists across a resistive load...)

Current generates heat, which can be bad for longevity of electronics. Ballast resistors exist to lower the amount of current flowing through (and hence heat generated in) a coil once the engine is running. They are typically bypassed during starting to ensure maximum strength park is available in the presence of the voltage drop caused by the starter load. This is why when the ballast resistor went on your mate's old Datto, it would fire and run as long as the starter was engaged, but die as soon as the key was released.

If your ignition circuit was designed with ballast resistor(s), you will get a much stronger spark but very likely shorten the life of your coil(s), by removing them. If it wasn't (or you replace your coils with a non-ballasted type) then you don't need it.

[steptoe]

mine doesn't have one at all,, the standards are factory with them, as far as I'm aware

all they do is make certain there is 6 volts going to the coils to start if some other power is being used, like a light or such, or running a low charge batt,, once the bike is running they just sit there,

no real positive or negs,,,, if it has one,, it can be taken out and by-passed,, if it doesn't, like mine, it doesn't need one,, although a quick trip to an auto leccy can easily wire one in if you so wish

[Cooper]

Hi all just on one topic I was reading re ballast resistor is it really necessary on our bikes they appear to zap alot of volts any positives or negatives. Also anyone going to Phillip Island next month on their steeds? Brian.